Residents at Waverley Grange Bupa Care Home in Farnham enjoyed a memorable afternoon when a collection of friendly farm animals came to visit.

The special experience was organised by Vanya Valcheva, lifestyle and wellbeing co-ordinator at Waverley Grange, in partnership with Em’s Friendly Farm. Residents, their families and staff were delighted to welcome a pony, pig, two goats and two sheep to the home.

Residents were able to spend time with the animals at their own pace, petting and spending time with them while sharing memories and stories from their own lives.

One resident, a former farmer, particularly enjoyed speaking with the farm’s owners about their experiences and farming practices, and sharing some of his own memories of working with animals.

Em’s Friendly Farm aims to give people of all ages the opportunity to learn about and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of spending time with animals. Through animal-facilitated therapy, the organisation seeks to support physical and mental wellbeing while placing animal welfare at the heart of its work.

Stacey Gale, resident experience manager at Waverley Grange, said: “Our residents absolutely loved the visit. It was lovely seeing them interact with the animals and reminisce about their own experiences growing up.

“The day brought lots of smiles, laughter and conversation, and many of the residents were still talking about it afterwards. Experiences like this are so valuable – they provide joy, stimulate conversation and create lasting memories.”

John Cullum, 94, a resident at Waverley Grange, added: “It was a first-class afternoon. The animals all came across as very well looked after, and it was lovely to see them all at our home.”

Stacey added that the residents are already used to having animals around the home, with chickens roaming in the garden and resident cat Sweet Pea also providing plenty of company.