Alpaca Therapy: How Teddy and Carlos Bring Joy to Senior Care Homes
Meet the Alpaca Duo Making a Difference
Teddy and Carlos are two alpacas with busy schedules and a special job. These fluffy friends visit senior homes on a regular basis, bringing smiles wherever they go.
Their owners, Ollie and Claire Bryan of Knightley Alpaca Trekking, didn't start out with this mission in mind. They first began offering alpaca walking experiences to the general public. But something unexpected happened - senior care homes started showing lots of interest in their services.
Perfect Companions for Seniors
What makes Teddy and Carlos so special for this work? Their calm and friendly nature suits the senior home environment perfectly. These alpacas don't just stop in common areas - they visit the entire facility. They even enter individual rooms to make sure residents who can't leave their beds still get to enjoy the furry visitors.
The impact of these visits has been amazing. Senior care home visits now make up half of all bookings for Knightley Alpaca Trekking. So far, Teddy and Carlos have brought their special brand of joy to more than 25 different locations.
Local Celebrities on the Rise
These alpacas have become famous faces around Staffordshire. People recognize them and look forward to their visits. The Bryans started their alpaca business in April 2021, and it has grown quickly. What began with just Teddy and Carlos has expanded to a herd of 10 alpacas.
Beyond Senior Homes
While senior home visits remain a core part of their work, the alpaca duo has branched out. They now make appearances at schools and special events. Their calendar keeps filling up with new opportunities.
In fact, Teddy and Carlos have received a very special invitation - they'll be guests at a wedding this month! Wedding attendees will get to mingle with the alpacas and take pictures with them, adding a unique touch to the celebration.
The story of Teddy and Carlos shows how animals can connect with people in meaningful ways. From casual walks to bringing comfort to seniors, these alpacas have found their calling in making human lives brighter.
You can follow the adventures of Teddy, Carlos, and the rest of the herd on Knightley Alpaca Trekking's social media pages.