There was no shortage of smiles at Willowbrook View recently as a small troupe of rabbits and guinea pigs made themselves at home for an afternoon of gentle chaos and welcome companionship. The visit, arranged with the ever-popular Chloe’s Mobile Farm, offered residents a chance to stroke, cuddle and hand-feed their furry guests – an experience many described as a reminder of treasured pets from years gone by.
The team at the luxury Wichelstowe care home say the idea grew from the residents’ own conversations. Tales of childhood rabbits, loyal dogs and the calming comfort of animals prompted staff to explore ways of bringing that connection back into their daily lives. And if the atmosphere on the day was anything to go by, the decision was spot on.
Jane Edwards, General Manager at Willowbrook View, said the animals brought out “a real sense of warmth and wonder”.
She added: “It’s important that, even in care, people can keep their bond with animals alive. Watching our residents light up reminded us that time spent with animals is not merely a pleasant distraction – it can be genuinely uplifting and meaningful.”
Chloe’s Mobile Farm, run by Wiltshire animal-lover Chloe, specialises in therapeutic and educational visits across the region. The concept was born from her own experience while studying psychology, when she noticed how much comfort she took from being around animals. That discovery later became the focus of her dissertation, and the seed of the mobile farm that now travels to schools, community groups and care settings.
Animal-assisted therapy is far from new. It has been used for centuries to provide emotional support, reduce stress and ease loneliness. Modern studies continue to highlight its impact, from lowering blood pressure to offering relief from anxiety and low mood. For people living with dementia, the presence of a calm, friendly creature can help spark connection when conversation feels out of reach.
Residents at Willowbrook View seemed to feel those benefits almost instantly. Soft fur, twitching noses and gentle squeaks worked their usual magic, with one resident declaring it “the happiest surprise of the week”.
Jane Edwards said the atmosphere spoke for itself:
“Our residents were absolutely captivated. There was plenty of laughter, lots of reminiscing, and a real sense of shared enjoyment. It was a simple activity, but incredibly enriching.”
Willowbrook View, part of the award-winning Connaught Care Collection, continues to build strong ties with the local community while offering high-quality care in the heart of Wichelstowe. Events like these, staff say, are part of their commitment to creating a home where moments of joy come as naturally as possible.
