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Horses bring VOTT residents and staff together for unique experience
'Most people love animals, and an event like this had everyone smiling and laughing'
12/6/2024
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Deron Hamel
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The Village on the Thames recently had a visit from some horses, a rabbit and a chicken that was engaging for residents and staff, creating what one team member at the Chatham-Kent seniors living community describes as a unique bonding experience.
The animals and their handlers from TJ Stables, a local equine facility specializing in individual and group interactions with horses as well as animal therapy, stopped by the Village and residents got to spend time with them. There was lots of petting, and residents could hold the rabbit and chicken in their laps.
But what was unique about this experience was how these gentle animals brought residents and team members together, says Diamond Zelina, the Village's fun co-ordinator.
“Events like this bring all the staff and residents together in a different way, and I feel it's bonding on another level,” Diamond tells S&R Today.
“Most people love animals, and an event like this had everyone smiling and laughing. It brings a lot of joy; like a big family get-together.”
Diamond says she got the idea for a visit from TJ Stables after learning horses had been to the Village several years previous and the residents enjoyed the experience.
“When I heard this, I contacted TJ Stables and was able to make this happen,” Diamond says. “TJ Stables is a great place and the people are amazing and so kind.”
Diamond says she knew from the moment the horses showed up outside the Village it was going to be another successful event.
“It was really amazing how all the residents and staff lit up (when they saw) the animals,” she says. “Everyone had a great time.”
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