Two llamas from Sidmouth put smiles on the faces of care home residents in the run-up to the coronation of King Charles III.
The pair from Peak Hill Llamas, with the 'royal' names of Harry and George, were brought to the Old Rectory Nursing Home in Exeter on Friday, April 21.
Event coordinator Tom Matthews said: “The residents loved Harry and George. Harry was getting very comfortable and sat down at every opportunity.”
The owners of Peak Hill Llamas, Maggie Jee and partner Paul, said Harry and George are both 12 years old, and are half-brothers. They described Harry as a ‘hooligan’ and ‘a cheeky chap’, while George is ‘highly strung but very friendly’.
Harry and George spent an hour at the care home, being stroked and patted by residents in the lounge and also visiting some people in their bedrooms.
Tom said: “We learnt that llamas are very sociable, and they won’t go where they can’t see each other.”
Peak Hill Llamas have been offering therapeutic visits to care homes since 2007. Maggie and Paul said: “Llamas are gentle animals who can calm anxiety and lift spirits, giving a real boost to feelings of wellbeing.”
Southern Healthcare, which runs four care homes in Devon, organises regular visits by animals to its residents.
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