She can’t sing or dance and she hasn’t got the X Factor, but Holy Cross visitor, Blondie, certainly proved she has the R Factor – as in “Aaah!”
Blondie, a miniature pony, who is just a couple of feet tall, was invited into the home’s activities room to meet residents. She belongs to KL Therapy Ponies who have visited our Sunderland home several times, to allow residents to pet ponies from the comfort of their armchairs.
“It was a wonderful treat for everyone,” said the home’s activities coordinator, Clare Quinn. “One of our residents, Eileen (pictured with Blondie), said it reminded her of when she was growing up in her home in the country. She often rode horses when she was younger and loves all animals. It really brightened up her afternoon.”
The Darlington based pony therapy company regularly makes visits to care homes, where it can have a remarkable effect on residents, particularly for those who have poor mobility or co-ordination, and people who suffer from depression, anxiety or have learning difficulties.