Residents at HC-One’s Crofton Springs Care Home in Cheltenham were treated to a very special visit this week as therapy dogs from Pets As Therapy (PAT) arrived to spend time with them, bringing comfort, companionship, and plenty of smiles.
The friendly therapy dogs were warmly welcomed by residents, who enjoyed petting, cuddling, and interacting with their four-legged visitors. For many, the simple act of stroking a dog’s fur or sharing a quiet moment with an animal helps spark memories, ease feelings of loneliness, and create a sense of calm. Others benefit from the stimulation and conversation the dogs naturally encourage, helping to reduce stress, lift mood, and promote social connection.
Therapy animal visits are known to support both emotional and physical wellbeing. They can encourage gentle movement, improve communication, and even stimulate appetite in some individuals. For residents living with dementia, interacting with the therapy dogs often sparks memories and provides meaningful moments of connection.
Crofton Springs Care Home places great emphasis on activities that support both physical health and emotional happiness, with therapy dog visits forming an important part of a varied activities calendar designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit.
The team at Crofton Springs expressed heartfelt thanks to Pets As Therapy and their dedicated volunteers for making such a positive difference to residents’ lives.
Crofton Springs is just one of over 280 kind and cosy HC-One homes across the UK and new residents can experience 3 weeks for the price of 2 when they join before the 30th November 2025.
Embrace the warmth of a kind community this Autumn, visit Crofton Springs - Care Home in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire | HC One today and find out more about life at Crofton Springs.
HC-One’s Crofton Springs Home Manager Elaine Andrews commented:
“At Crofton Springs, we know how important social and sensory activities are for the wellbeing of our residents. The visits from Pets As Therapy are a highlight for many people here – the joy on our residents’ faces says it all. The dogs bring not only happiness but also a real sense of comfort and reassurance, which makes a lasting difference.”