The Vale of Leven Hospital had two furry visitors last week, honouring the memory of a former patient.
The alpacas, Finlay and Rory from Overton Llama Lodges in Dumbarton, were in the gardens at the Vale to meet patients and staff from Wards 14, 15, Katrine and Fruin.
The wife of a former patient wanted to organise something as a thank you for looking after her husband while in hospital.
He loved animals and knew the joy they could bring people. This visit was organised to honour his memory and do something different for those at the hospital.
Morven Cowie, Senior Charge Nurse for the Katrine & Fruin Ward, said, “The feedback from the staff and patients was overwhelmingly positive. The smiles on everyone’s faces made the visit worthwhile.
“The alpacas were just the therapy we needed on a Monday morning, and got the patients outside in the fabulous sensory garden. That environment alone positively impacts the health and wellbeing of the patients who find themselves in the hospital.
Beth Culshaw, West Dunbartonshire health and social care partnership chief officer, said, “I’d like to thank all involved for making this happen and providing such a unique experience for those on the wards. It’s fantastic to see the joy these experiences can bring to patients and staff.”
