therapy animals

Therapy animals spread festive joy at City’s community hospital

The festive season came early to ward 3 at Kings Lodge, Florence Nightingale Community Hospital, as patients received a memorable visit from some special guests: a delightful group of therapy animals. The visit included Bella, the therapy miniature Shetland pony, as well as a variety of other lovable creatures, all bringing joy and comfort to the neurological rehabilitation patients, being cared for at the hospital.

In what can only be described as a merry menagerie, patients on Ward 3 were treated to fluffy rabbits and guinea pigs, laughter-inducing antics from pygmy goats and even the presence of a charming Polish cockerel. Of course, the star of the show was Bella, the friendly miniature Shetland pony, who trotted in to make everyone smile.

therapy pony
therapy rabbit

This festive surprise was made possible by the generous funding donated to Kings Lodge through Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity, which funds such wonderful therapy visits.

Therapy animals, as many patients and staff can attest, bring more than just smiles. The benefits of animal-assisted therapy are numerous and well-documented. Staff on Ward 3 shared that interacting with these animals helps to create a calm and relaxed environment for patients. Studies have shown that contact with therapy animals can reduce heart rates and lower stress levels, helping patients on their recovery journey. The soothing presence of the animals is particularly beneficial in a setting where patients are working hard to regain strength and confidence.

It wasn’t just the patients who were taken with the animals—staff also couldn’t help but smile as the pygmy goats played with one another, their playful energy sparking a few giggles throughout. The joy that filled the courtyard was palpable, with everyone enjoying the magical moment of being surrounded by such sweet and endearing creatures.

These therapy visits are an integral part of the support patients receive at Kings Lodge, and the staff would like to express their gratitude to the donors who make them possible. The Derby & Burton Hospitals Charity continues to rely on generous contributions from the community. If you’d like to support these programs and help bring more joy to patients on Ward 3 and across all University Hospitals Derby & Burton sites, donations are welcome at www.dbhc.org.uk/donate.

As the festive season draws closer, the smiles on the faces of patients at Ward 3 serve as a reminder of the power of kindness, companionship, and the healing power of animals. The therapy animals brought more than just festive cheer; they brought comfort, happiness, and a sense of connection, all of which are vital in the journey toward recovery.

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