Ponies and Farm Animals Bring Therapy to Tacoronte Foster Home

Residents at the Quesada Sánchez Family Foster Home in Tacoronte recently received a wonderful surprise: two days of visits from ponies and farm animals. This special activity, though a big effort to organize, was incredibly worthwhile, helping to boost their memory, emotions, and overall well-being.

The first visit was on December 5th. A staff member, along with her children, brought her own farm animals – a goat, a baby goat (kid), rabbits, and chicks – to the home. The elderly residents loved seeing, touching, and interacting with them, understanding the comfort these animals could bring.

“This isn't just an activity; it's therapy,” explained Ithaisa Hernández, the home’s director. “The benefits for everyone are huge, especially since many of our residents grew up farming and working with animals in this area.”

Ithaisa shared how some residents, seeing the goat, even asked if they could milk it. Many of the animals seemed to sense the residents’ gentle nature, approaching them easily when a hand was extended. “Their faces lit up with curiosity, but the real magic was the smiles that appeared when they touched the animals and the special bond that formed,” she added.

One moment was particularly moving. A gentleman, who uses a wheelchair and initially didn't want to join the activity, surprised everyone. When he spotted a goat from afar, he pushed his chair closer and said he wanted to milk it. Staff helped him get into position, and as soon as he touched the goat, milk started to flow. “It was a magical moment,” the director recalled, visibly emotional. “This man, who often struggled with his thoughts, became completely focused and gave us a truly special memory.”

The second visit, on December 17th, brought two ponies named Estrella and Wilson. They created even more joy and connections, despite a slight hiccup: it was a rainy day, so the planned outdoor area couldn't be used. The team quickly improvised, laying down mats to ensure the ponies wouldn't slip or get scared.

Despite these small challenges, the day was still "incredibly tender," as part of the home's Animal-Assisted Interventions program for dependent individuals.

The ponies’ handlers brought them to the home and gently guided them, making sure they stayed calm. Petting and interacting with the ponies’ soft fur offers huge benefits for older people. It helps them feel calm, reduces stress, eases symptoms of depression and anxiety, boosts self-esteem, and fights loneliness with unconditional affection.

Through initiatives like these, the Quesada Sánchez Family Foster Home, run by the Gerón Foundation, continues its dedication to providing person-centered, holistic, and compassionate care, promoting well-being and active involvement at every stage of life.