Animal friendly care homes? Alpaca my bags

Residents at Berkeley Court care home in Leeds enjoyed a very special visit from a pair of unusual visitors on Monday 27 June normally seen on the plains and mountains in South America not suburban Leeds.

Two alpacas, named King Kong and Duval, received a hearty welcome from residents and the team. Residents got to pet and play with the two alpacas in the garden and residents’ common room. They also learned some interesting alpaca facts, such as them being related to camels and making fantastic pets.

Alpacas are native to South America, but fortunately these two did not have to trek so far to reach Berkeley Court. Altreka is an alpaca farm and trekking company based in Baildon in West Yorkshire, and they kindly brought the duo in for a visit. King Kong and Duval were on their best behaviour throughout the visit and delighted absolutely everybody.

The visit was a wonderful treat for everyone at the home. Patricia Stuart, who has lived Berkeley Court for three years, said: 

It was so fun to meet King Kong and Duval, those are such fun names aren’t they? I’ve never petted an alpaca before, I don’t think I’ve even seen one in real life!

They were so well behaved, and the team from Altreka told us lots of interesting things about them. I never knew that alpacas had such soft fur! I hope they can come visit us again soon!

Jane Carr, Manager of Berkeley Court care home, said:

We’re delighted to have had King Kong and Duval visit us at Berkeley Court care home. Alpacas are such fascinating creatures, and they were both absolutely lovely!

Our residents had so much fun, I’d like to say a big thank you to Altreka for bringing them along. We love arranging these sorts of visits. They’re a lot of fun for us and our residents and are a real boost to everyone’s happiness and well-being.

Berkeley Court, like many Anchor properties, is an animal-friendly location. Residents are encouraged to move in with their pets and where activities such as visits from alpacas and other animals are regularly organised along with a variety of other engaging activities.

For more information about Berkeley Court care home, please click here.

Anyone interested in booking a visit from Altreka can do so by visiting their website.