21 August 2025
At Kendal Care Home, we believe that happiness comes in many forms – and sometimes, it comes with four paws and a wagging tail! Today, our residents were treated to a truly heartwarming visit from Luna, a beautiful German Shepherd, who spent the day bringing joy, comfort, and companionship to everyone she met.
From the moment she trotted in, Luna captured the hearts of our residents. Hands reached out to stroke her soft fur, laughter echoed through the lounges, and smiles lit up the room as she moved from person to person, offering cuddles and companionship. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and connection – proof of the special bond between humans and animals.
Pet therapy has been widely recognised for its incredible benefits in care home settings. Interacting with animals like Luna can:
🐶 Reduce stress and anxiety – Stroking a dog can lower blood pressure and create a sense of calm.
🌟 Boost mood and wellbeing – The presence of pets often sparks smiles, laughter, and a feeling of joy.
💬 Encourage social interaction – Residents often share stories of their own pets, sparking conversation and connection with others.
🧠 Stimulate memory – For residents living with dementia, time with animals can bring back fond memories and strengthen emotional wellbeing.
💪 Promote physical activity – Even simple gestures like reaching out to pet or walk alongside a dog can help with mobility and coordination.
Luna’s visit didn’t just brighten the day – it created special moments that our residents and staff will cherish. One resident reminisced about their own beloved German Shepherd, sharing stories from years gone by, while another couldn’t stop smiling as Luna curled up at their feet. These seemingly small interactions leave a lasting impact, reminding us all of the joy and comfort pets can bring.
At Kendal Care Home, we are committed to creating opportunities for our residents to experience happiness, companionship, and meaningful engagement – and Luna’s visit was a wonderful reminder of how simple acts of love can make the biggest difference.
A big thank you to Luna (and her wonderful handler) for filling our home with so much love, laughter, and paw-sitive energy today! 🐕💛
Visit Kendal Care Home’s Facebook Page to learn more on what our residents do.
