EMYLIE HOWIE
Home’s furry visitors
A care home received a surprise visit from some special fluffy friends.
It was smiles all round for residents at Craigielea Care Centre, in Renfrew, after the home’s staff surprised them with a very special visit from Fergus and Tosh - two friendly alpacas - and their minders.
The visit was part of the care home’s pet therapy programme, designed to encourage residents to stay active while socialising with other residents.
The visit was a long time in the making, with activities like this one being forced on hold for more than 18 months due to the coronavirus restrictions.
Sheila Inshaw, service manager at Craigielea Care Centre, said: “Community activities like this can really help boost morale - for residents and our colleagues alike - so it was lovely to welcome the alpacas for a safe visit, especially after months of planning by our activities coordinator.
“We look forward to organising more activities in the home.”
Fergus and Tosh provided gentle company for residents, who enjoyed petting and feeding them carrot sticks.
Those who were able, even took them on a tour around the gardens.
And one resident who took up the reins was Betty Marshall, she put a stride in the alpaca’s step as she took him on a tour.
Activities coordinator Lindsay McKechnie said: “Activities like this make such a difference for our residents, especially after almost two years of keeping residents socially distanced and having to cancel outside activities due to the pandemic.
“All the residents really enjoyed meeting Fergus and Tosh and we hope to have them back soon for more smiles all round.”
And it wasn’t just the residents who enjoyed their visit, the alpacas and their handlers also enjoyed their day out.
Posting on social media they said: “Thank you to Craigielea Care Home, to the residents and staff for making us so welcome.
“Jnr and I, Fergus and Tosh, will remember this day for a very long time to come.
“To the staff, keep up the good work you are very much appreciated and valued for the work you do each and every day and, to the residents, keep smiling. Your smiles are always an uplift to each and every one. Once again, thank you so much for allowing us to come to your beautiful home.”
Jeannie Gallagher with
Lindsay McKechnie