Emma Jackson with one of the therapy ponies
THERE were miles of smiles at Blackpool Victoria Hospital today as patients got to meet some special visitors.
Three American miniature pets as therapy horses visited the wards at the hospital to interact with patients on a wide range of wards.
This was the latest visit from the always popular horses owned by KL Pony Therapy in Northallerton
Matron, Maria Jennings, from the Unscheduled Care Division at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The horses are amazing and the patients adore them.
“They really do bring a smile to the faces of patients, visitors and staff and it is quite emotional at times just seeing the look on people’s faces.’’
Katy Smith, owner of KL Pony Therapy in Northallerton, who has 30 years of experience working with horses, said: “Our ponies are trained to be social and they create lovely memories for the patients they meet, particularly if they are feeling fed up.
“The miniature horses can live up to 50 years, which makes them ideal as guide horses for the blind and partially sighted. They enjoy doing visits and love to meet people.”
The visit was arranged by doctor and horse rider, Emma Jackson. She said: “Everyone loves the horses and I love working with them.
“It is such as great thing for patients of all ages and really brightens up their day.’’