Pharaoh the llama visited residents at Lyncroft Care Home in Wisbech this week.

Wisbech Standard: Pharaoh the Llama visits Lyncroft Care Home in WisbechPharaoh the Llama visits Lyncroft Care Home in Wisbech (Image: Archant)

Pharaoh, of Faster Lente Llama Farm based in Wisbech, bought Tina and Chris Gambell with him for his visit.

“Our residents absolutely adored Pharaoh,” said home manager Jan Davison. “The smiles on their faces said it all.”

Residents were able to stroke Pharaoh and feed him treats of carrots, apples and alfalfa nuts.

Jenny Judge, well-being and activities co-ordinator at Lyncroft, who organised the visit, said: “Our residents couldn’t believe their eyes when they spotted him coming.

“Pharaoh came right into the garden and popped his head through the patio doors so that the residents could give his neck a stroke. “Interacting with a friendly llama is reported to help many physical and mental issues and he certainly created quite a buzz here at Lyncroft.”

Tina and Chris said: “Pharaoh is hoping to receive invitations to other care homes and institutions where his wonderfully calm and gentle presence can bring further benefits to the people of Wisbech and beyond.”

Studies have shown that Llama therapy builds on the human-animal bond and can help reduce blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.

It can also release endorphins that produce a calming effect.