Bringing calm, connection and joy to people living with dementia — one gentle pony at a time.

At Unique Homecare, we believe in going beyond traditional care.
That’s why we’ve introduced something truly special: gentle visits from our Fell ponies  calm, native British ponies known for their kind nature and steady temperament.
 

These visits aren’t just heartwarming. They can:

• Reduce anxiety
   
• Spark memory and conversation
   
• Provide tactile stimulation
   
• Help people reconnect with past experiences, especially those from rural or farming backgrounds
   

Fell ponies are native to Cumbria and the North of England, with a long history of working closely with people. Their size, softness, and stillness make them ideal therapy animals  especially for those who might feel anxious or withdrawn.

Unlike larger horses, they can safely visit outdoor spaces, garden areas, or approach wheelchairs and seated clients gently and calmly.

For someone living with dementia, a pony visit can:

• Stimulate memories (e.g. growing up on farms or riding as a child)
   
• Encourage interaction, laughter, and storytelling
   
• Lower agitation and improve mood
   
• Create calm moments of quiet connection
   

“We watched a lady who hadn’t spoken all day stroke Foxy the Fell pony and say, ‘I used to ride one just like him.’ It was a beautiful moment.”
– Michelle, Unique Homecare
 

Our pony visits happen at:

• Memory cafés and community dementia events
   
• Care homes and residential settings
   
• Private gardens or driveways (with consent and safety checks)
   
• Day centres or church halls
   

Each visit is carefully risk-assessed and supervised by our trained team. Ponies are groomed, calm, and always accompanied.