ELDERLY residents in a Richmond nursing home recently welcomed a four-legged visitor in the name of therapy.

Residents living in the Nightingale Hall home in Seagrim Crescent, Garden Village were treated to a visit by Wish, a miniature American pony.

It formed part of an ongoing programme of animal therapy at Nightingale Hall, which regularly sees animals, such as dogs and chicks, being introduced in the home.

Studies have shown there are positive physical and emotional benefits to the elderly of being in regular contact with animals.

Wish was brought into the home by K&L Pony Therapy, a company based in Middleton St George.

Alison Lincoln, interim manager at Nightingale Hall, said: “It is difficult for people to keep pets in a care home but we recognise the benefits of having contact with animals and the next best thing is to ensure we give our residents as many opportunities as possible to be around them.

“Animals are a great source of comfort and are widely recognised as having positive effects on people. “This was certainly the case with Wish, everyone loved patting and spending time with her.”

Katy Smith, co-owner of K&L Pony Therapy, said: “We take our ponies to many care homes and the reaction of the residents is always so positive.

“They really come alive when they see the animals and for many it triggers happy memories from their past.”