Residents at Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home in Totland enjoyed a heart-warming visit by 2 gentle donkeys this week to celebrate World Donkey Day.
Geraldine and Daphne, from the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, spent time with residents in the home’s garden, bringing smiles, conversation and plenty of affectionate nose nudges along the way.
Residents of the Totland home were able to brush the donkeys’ soft coats and share memories of working donkeys from years gone by, with the visit sparking stories and fond recollections throughout the morning.
Geraldine quickly earned a reputation as the social butterfly of the pair, making sure to greet everyone, while Daphne charmed residents with her calm temperament and soulful eyes.
Laura Birkett, Director for Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home, said:
“Geraldine and Daphne brought so much warmth and happiness into the home.
“There is something incredibly calming about being around animals, and our residents loved every minute of it.
“It was lovely to see so many smiles and hear residents sharing their own memories of donkeys from earlier in life.
Article continues below this advertisement “We are very grateful to the sanctuary for taking the time to visit us. It was a simple morning, but one that meant a great deal to everyone here.”
Animal visits are a regular and popular part of life at Inglefield, helping to encourage conversation, spark memories and bring moments of joy to residents.
The special visit marked World Donkey Day and celebrated the connection between people and animals.
