University Nursing Home Gets a Kick Out of an Unlikely Lovable Visitor

by Jeff Jacomowitz

On July 3rd, University Nursing Home on Grand Avenue in the Bronx, residents were visited by a mini-therapy horse, a day they will never forget. These residents could not get enough Cupid, the name of this beautiful mini-horse that brought so many smiles and laughter to both residents and staff. Linda Cole, the trainer/handler, has toured mini-horses throughout many facilities and although she does this regularly, her love of the residents hugging the horse is priceless.

“You just want to cry when you see the reaction that our residents have when they come face to face with these beautiful animals,” said Tonkya De Havia, Recreation Director, University Nursing Home. “Programs like these are talked about for days and weeks to come. The residents tell their families and it’s such a joy.”

It is all about Centers Health Care’s “Happy Horse Visit” Program where mini-horses like these will be visiting different Centers nursing homes throughout the northeast.

(Photos: Courtesy of University Nursing Home)