25 October 2024
Older people on our inpatient unit at Lanchester Road Hospital in Durham welcomed a selection of reptiles into an animal therapy session.
They spent the morning getting up close and personal with some unusual creatures including a corn snake, a giant African land snail and a tarantula to name a few.
Brought to the unit by trained handler Rob, a ranger with ZooLab UK, he introduced the animals one by one, told many facts about them and answered any questions that were asked.
Though the reptiles might not look appealing, these type of animal therapy sessions are designed to introduce new experiences, improve motor and neuro-musculoskeletal skills, enhance the senses and improve communication as well as helping to calm, soothe emotions and lower anxiety levels.
“We would normally invite a donkey or a PAT dog to visit us which always get a great response,” said Paula Hooks, a specialist occupational therapist.
“But we wanted to encourage the people we care for to engage in a different way, and having unusual animals would do just that.
“The visit was a talking point for our patients and staff for many weeks and everyone was looking forward to the day.
“We didn’t know what animals would be visiting, so the anticipation was huge. Everybody talked about what animals they wanted to see and hold and which ones they didn’t!
“Our patients are a fearless bunch, holding a snake was number one on the agenda, but we did get a few ‘urrgh’s’ between the rats and cockroaches!
Reflecting on the experience, a patient said: “I held a snake and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. Then I saw the Northern Lights at nighttime, I’ve had the best 24 hours.”
Nichola Young, ward manager, said: “We have always had animals visit the ward, but this was the first time we had exotic animals.
“It was good for patients to have something different to talk about and the benefits of a shared experience help us to build a therapeutic relationship.
“It was also a great opportunity for co-working as staff from another department and family members joined us too.
“It was a great morale boost for everyone.”
