A BARNARD Castle care home has been presented with three “companion pets” in memory of a much-loved grandmother as a thank you for the care she received.
Before her death in May, Startforth resident Maureen Thompson had spent several weeks at Beaconsfield Court Care Home when she was accompanied by her interactive toy cat, Pearl, which was a great comfort.
Granddaughter Melissa Mullery said: “Those who knew my nan knew she adored animals. As she got older, she unfortunately was unable to take care of a pet so after researching, we discovered a company that makes toy pet companions.”
The companion pets, made by Joy for All, are robotic and are made to look, feel and sound like the real thing and have built-in sensors which respond to touch.
Mrs Mullery added: “She always said the pet brought her so much joy.
Nan’s pet Pearl was the talk of the care home. Staff, residents and visitors could all see how comforting it was to have her little friend with her.
“As a family we decided we would like to keep nan’s memory alive by supporting residents at Beaconsfield Court Care Home.”
Instead of funeral flowers, the family asked for donations to buy companion pets for the home. They have also set up an online fundraiser in memory of Maureen.
Ms Mullery said: “Companion pets are not just for people like nan, they have been proved to enhance the lives of those living with dementia, Alzheimer’s and other conditions.”
Last month Ms Mullery, her mother Marilyn, and daughter Imogen, presented staff and residents at the care home with three companion pets.
The family wants to raise £150 to purchase another companion pet for the home. Anyone who would like to donate should visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Nannymaureen2023
