The amazing duo of furry friends, Liquorice and Caramac, met residents and staff when they went on a tour of the home.
Resident, Janet, aged 96, said: "What a lovely surprise, I cannot believe they came inside the home for all to see. I hope everyone liked them too.”
The friendly pair had travelled from Alpaca Adventure near Shaftesbury where they live on a smallholding.
Alpacas are known for their warmth and friendliness having lived alongside humans for more than 6,000 years.
Verwood House’s Wellbeing and Lifestyle Coach, Emilia Turner, said that residents and staff love to bring animals into the home because they have such a ‘calming’ effect.
She said: “We were so surprised at how gentle Liquorice and Caramac were as well as being very well behaved.
“It was so nice to bring them into the home and to see the expression on people’s faces. It is not every day that you see an alpaca walking down your hallway or in the lounge!”
The alpacas visited as part of Verwood’s pet therapy sessions. Research shows that animals can encourage social interaction and stroking them can reduce stress.
The alpaca itself became domesticated for their ultra-fine fibre. This fibre makes beautiful clothing – soft, warm and hypoallergenic.
Emilia added: “We like to think that every day is different here at Verwood and it is certainly full of good surprises – having Liquorice and Caramac visit had everyone smiling and feeling good.”
