Pensioners welcome farmyard animals at care home

A group of pensioners are turning their hands to farming after welcoming pigs, goats and chickens to their care home.

Broadwater Lodge, in Godalming, Surrey, has opened an onsite smallholding after a number of animal therapy visits to the home.

The barnyard residents include pigs called Art and Arnie, goats called Shakespeare and Parsley, Rolo the rabbit, two guinea pigs and a small flock of chickens.

Home manager Angela Bookham, said: “Our new animal additions have brought a smile to everyone’s face, and it’s a joy to see the residents and team take pride in caring for our farm.

“We are always looking to plan exciting activities for residents and as so many have enjoyed previous animal visits, we wanted to find a way to make animals a permanent part of life at the care home.

“The farm animals have been so well received, and it’s lovely to see residents participating in the care of more unusual animals, such as the goats and pigs, which provides real therapeutic benefits for them.

“Having animals to take care of, and a farm to maintain, not only encourages residents to spend time outdoors but it also helps them find a sense of purpose and gives them responsibility later in life.”

Broadwater Lodge provides full-time residential and dementia care and short-term respite care.

The home said it is planning to host open days for the community, including a visit from a local mother and toddler group.