Dec 2018
Charlie the Donkey spreads Christmas cheer at Goodson Lodge
Residents at Goodson Lodge were thrilled to meet Charlie the donkey on 13th December, when he popped in to say hello.
Charlie first stopped by the lounge area where he met some of the residents, including David (a former banqueting manager at the Dorchester hotel in London) for a well-earned carrot or two. He then trotted off down the corridor - accompanied by his handler - to meet those residents who weren't able to get to the lounge.
We were delighted to welcome the local media into the home to capture all of the fun for posterity. Leanne Sims, Activity Coordinator at the home, was interviewed live on BBC Radio Wiltshire in the morning, and then later by ITV West Country News where she spoke passionately about how animal therapy enriches the lives of residents, particularly those with dementia.
If you would like to see Charlie in action - follow the link here: Charlie spreads Christmas cheer
After an eventful morning, residents waved goodbye to Charlie - but he has promised to come back again at Easter for more carrots and cuddles!