Alpacas surprise Stockport care home residents

The animals enjoy the company of humans, the care home says

Care home residents who were surprised by visiting alpacas have said they "couldn't believe" what they were seeing when the animals walked in.

Alpacas Teddy and Carlos were brought to Bruce Lodge in Stockport for an unexpected pet therapy session.

The care home said the animals enjoy the company of humans and were known for their gentle nature.

Resident Barbara said: "I couldn't believe what was in front of me. Things like that just don't happen."

Another resident Marion added: "They were lovely and obedient; it was like they were trying to talk to me - but they'd have to be good to out-talk me."

'Amazing smiles'

Kath, who also lives at Bruce Lodge, said: "I liked it a lot and I usually don't like things."

Activity and lifestyle facilitator, Seb Williams, said some residents were shocked at first, but loved the experience.

"Everyone's smiles were amazing. It was so much fun, especially seeing the alpacas go upstairs in the lift," he said.

Residents were shocked when alpacas walked through the door, the care home says

Bruce Lodge is part of Borough Care, a residential care provider with 10 care homes in Stockport.

Pet therapy, also referred to as animal assisted therapy, uses pets as a form of companionship and treatment, and can improve an older person's emotional, social and cognitive abilities, a spokesperson for Borough Care said.

Teddy and Carlos came from Knightley Alpaca Trekking in Staffordshire for the surprise visit.