RESIDENTS at a care home in Andover have enjoyed a visit from an American miniature pony as part of an animal therapy session.

The pony, called Dollar, visited Millway House on Amesbury Road from Show Tell and Talk Animals, which looks after a range of animals including horses, goats, rabbits, and snails.

Dollar, who is two years old and only 32 inches tall, was taken around Millway House to interact with the residents, enjoying the attention they gave it.

Andover Advertiser: Dollar the pony with a resident

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‘Animal therapy’ refers to the use of animals to help people with specific physical or mental health conditions, and Claire Lousteau, home manager at Millway House, says the benefits for her residents, are huge.

She said: “Our residents find peace and relaxation through animal visits like this, and it’s been wonderful to see how much they’ve enjoyed stroking and talking to Dollar today. Thanks to Rachel for bringing her in.”

Owner of Show Tell and Talk Animals, Rachel Cavill, said: “I’ve looked after animals all my life and they’ve always brought me great pleasure.

“I can now share this with others, and it has been lovely to take Dollar around Millway House today. To see the smiles on all the residents’ faces is really heart-warming, and we’re already looking forward to our next visit.”

Operations manager at Millway House, Sara Gallagher, said: “At Millway House, we are a nurse-led care home, so our approach focuses on providing a home from home for our residents while we meet their healthcare needs.

“Interaction with different animals helps stimulate our residents’ brains and helps to keep them mentally active and engaged, which is so important, and I’m delighted to hear how much they enjoyed Dollar's visit.”