Residents at a Littlehampton care home were treated to a rather unusual visit when two Shetland ponies dropped by.
Digby and Doug, from the Little Hoof Company, visited HMT’s Norden House Care Home, where they spent time meeting residents and exploring the grounds.
The surprise visit was arranged by activity coordinators Ella and Adriana, alongside Tinka Allingham, who runs the Little Hoof Company.
Several residents had previously asked about having animals visit the home, but they had no idea two ponies would be turning up.
Ella said: “It was a brilliant day for all our residents, and a huge surprise for them too. When the ponies showed up everyone was smiling and wanting to say hello.
“We’re really glad we were able to bring Digby and Doug to Norden House, it was such a fantastic experience.”
Digby, the more experienced of the two ponies, led the way as the pair spent time in the gardens before making their way around other parts of the home, including the café.
The Little Hoof Company has been operating for around two years and specialises in taking trained Shetland ponies into care homes.
Owner Tinka Allingham has spent much of her life around horses and set up the service to give people living in care settings the chance to enjoy that same connection with animals.
Staff at Norden House said the visit brought plenty of smiles and proved a big hit with residents.
The home has been building links with businesses and organisations across Littlehampton and Worthing to provide new activities and experiences for residents.
Digby and Doug are expected to receive a very warm welcome when they return in the future.
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