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'Everyone was thrilled' - Great Wyrley care home residents welcome two new friends as part of therapy session

Residents at two Great Wyrley care homes got a close up of how animals can be good for well being as part of a unique experience.

By Paul Jenkins
Published

Staff from Wheaton Aston based Donkey EARS - Donkey Education and Relaxation in Staffordshire - visited The Lakeview Care Home and Waters Edge on Stafford Road which is one of two on the site.

WALSALL COPYRIGHT NATIONAL WORLD STEVE LEATH 30/09/25Lakeview Care Home/ Nursing Home, between Walsall and Great Wyrley, where Donkeys Alfie and Vinnie visited two care homes in Great Wyrley. Resident: June Hewitt says hello. With her from Donkey EARS is Sarah Killion and Jo Wightman.
Donkeys Alfie and Vinnie visited two care homes in Great Wyrley. Resident: June Hewitt says hello and with her from Donkey EARS is Sarah Killion and Jo Wightman.

They brought two therapy donkeys, Alfie and Vinny with them  as part of a hands-on, interactive session designed to provide comfort, relaxation and joy. 

Residents spent time stroking, grooming and connecting with the donkeys – the whole programme is designed to create moments of happiness, calm, and memories.

Donkeys Alfie and Vinny visited residents in two Great Wyrley care homes. Resident Raymond Wheeler is picture with Jo Wightman from Donkey EARS. Alfie the donkey, and staff member Nikita Bladon
Donkeys Alfie and Vinny visited residents in two Great Wyrley care homes. Resident Raymond Wheeler is picture with Jo Wightman from Donkey EARS. Alfie the donkey, and staff member Nikita Bladon

The donkey visit marked a special finale to a month of fundraising and awareness activities at The Lakes, as September was World Alzheimer’s Month.

Throughout the month, both homes have hosted a variety of events in support of the Alzheimer’s Society, including coffee mornings, raffles, pre-loved sales and themed dress days.

Tracey York from the homes said: " Animal therapy is widely recognised as having huge benefits for people living with dementia, helping to reduce stress, encourage communication, and spark positive emotional connections. 

"Alfie and Vinny are elderly, retired donkeys who saw service on Blackpool and Great Yarmouth beaches and have a wonderful temperament in common with their breed.

"They visited residents who couldn't leave their room as well as the communal areas - everyone was thrilled to meet them and we thank Donkey EARS for bringing them in.

"We have had a number of events in September in which many of the residents have been involved and it keeps them active and lively - there will be plenty more to come in the run up to Christmas."