Community group helps MHA Westbury Grange buy robotic pets

A Buckinghamshire based care home has received two robotic pets as a donation from a community group.

MHA Westbury Grange, in Newport Pagnell received a couple of furry pets, a cat and dog as a donation from community group Friends of Milton Keynes. The group raises money by hosting fundraising events across Milton Keynes and at the cafe at Milton Keynes Hospital, with the profits being donated to the charity.

The home, which provides residential dementia and general nursing care for 45 residents in purpose-built, en suite accommodation now has seven robotic pets in total.

The pets which retail around £120 are a huge hit amongst those living with dementia and replicate what a real life pet would do.

Julie Roche, home manager said: “It was out of the blue one day when our activities coordinator Sophie got a call from the Friends of Milton Keynes and Community who told us what they would like to do.

“They mentioned that they want to support local services in the area by giving back to them and we were more than happy to accept.

“The group mentioned they had heard about the robotic pets and how beneficial they were for those living in dementia.

“Even those residents who are not pet lovers like to enjoy their time with the pets and it's amazing to see them having a good time

“Previously I had bought some robotic pets and they proved to be a big hit with our residents, so to have a couple more is a huge help.

“It definitely makes our residents smile and gives them a lot of comfort.

“I would like to thank the friends of Milton Keynes and Community and especially those who contributed for their support and making us feel a valuable asset to the community.”