Local ‘Crocodile Dundee’ Comes To Visit… Residents Welcome Some Exotic Guests!

Residents at Aaron House Care Home in Penicuik – part of the New Century Care group – welcomed some very exciting visitors earlier this week.

The residents were visited by Penicuik’s very own ‘Crocodile Dundee’, and his furry and scaly friends! As part of their Animal Therapy program, large lizards, a tortoise, snails, a native British fox and a Black Japanese Fox all came down to Aaron House to spend the day with residents.

It was a real ‘hands on’ day for all the residents, with each getting to snuggle up to the animals – though perhaps the reptiles weren’t quite so cuddly.

The tame fox was a particular favorite, with everyone agreeing foxes were more friendly and lively guests than the tortoise, who perhaps was enjoying the idea of a retirement environment too much! It was also a great chance for everyone to learn about the animals who came for the day.

Animal therapy aids reminiscence and communications for people living with dementia, helping to induce positive memories. The staff team at Aaron House are committed to providing interesting, enjoyable and stimulating activities for residents to participate in, if they choose. The animal therapy day is the latest in a long line of innovative activities.

Sharlene, Activities Co-ordinator at Aaron House Care Home, commented:

“It was such a brilliant day. It was so lovely to see the residents come alive when the animals were there and really get involved. Each resident had the opportunity to get up close with all the animals, although many were surprised to be meeting a Black Japanese Fox!

“We are so pleased we arranged this animal therapy as part of our activities programme. Both residents and staff had great fun and now everyone has some great stories to tell! We haven’t had such exotic visitors before, but we certainly will again.”