A Horse Walks into a Dining Room - Mare Visits Nursing Home - Horse Brings Comfort to German Nursing Home Residents
A Haflinger mare named Wega recently brought joy and comfort to residents at a nursing home in Bückeburg, Lower Saxony, Germany. Owned by 23-year-old aspiring teacher Nele Plaßmeier, Wega's visits are not monetized, with Plaßmeier finding the residents' happiness to be the 'most beautiful payment'.
Wega's visits to the nursing home began in 2015 and now occur weekly. The nursing home's dining room was specially prepared for her, with tables moved to accommodate her presence. The residents, many of whom have health issues or dementia, showed curiosity and affection towards Wega, with her calm demeanor having a positive effect on them, according to the nursing home's social service head, Tanja Schal. Wega was led carefully into and out of the nursing home, ensuring her comfort and safety at all times. The German Animal Welfare Federation views such animal visits positively, as long as the animal's welfare is considered. Plaßmeier plans to further develop Wega's abilities and professionalize her work in animal-assisted activities.
Wega's visits to the nursing home in Bückeburg have been a source of joy and comfort for the residents since 2015. With careful planning and consideration for both the residents and Wega's welfare, these visits are set to continue, potentially even becoming more professionalized in the future.
