RESIDENTS at a county care home got a real kick out of a special animal visit.
Harry King, who lives at Care UK’s Perry Manor saw his wish come true when a donkey trotted into the home.
The visit was organised after Harry made the wish on the home’s Wishing Tree.
Harry, along with two other residents who used to raise donkeys, had the opportunity to pet a donkey from Second Chance Petting Farm.
Harry, aged 91 and a former life insurance broker, kept donkeys as pets with his wife. He has especially fond memories of a pair he kept in his younger years, Pippin and Tog.
He said:
“I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the donkey appear in front of me – it was like magic.
“It was a very special moment and brought back fond memories of when I cared for Pippin and Tog. I feel very lucky.”
The visit was part of the home’s Wishing Tree scheme which encourages residents to put wishes forward.
This allows them to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new, no wish is too big or small.
Katherine Matthews, home manager at Perry Manor, said:
“Harry always speaks fondly of his younger years, and of the donkeys he used to care for – we love hearing all about these unusual pets!
“Many people believe moving into a care home means no more new or meaningful experience.
“This couldn’t be further from the truth, and this is exactly why our Wishing Tree exists; it’s a wonderful way for residents to relive old memories and experience things that matter to them.”
