Zoolab visits Gainsborough House
Monday 26th October saw a visit from Zoolab, the UK’s number one animal handling experience and life long learning company. Alex, their NorthWest ranger, brought along a Corn snake called ‘Snookie’ a Millipede called ‘Mildred’, a brown rat called ‘Gernie’, a very handsome bearded dragon and some Giant Snails. She handled the animals and talked about their habitats and diet. Those residents who were brave enough had the opportuntity to hold, touch or just have a good look at the animals.
‘Sookie’ the snake got mixed reactions as some residents thought her skin would have a slimy texture, but were extremely surprised to find that her skin felt quite ‘rubbery’ to touch. The bearded dragon enjoyed the attention, posing for the camera as he was stroked and residents found his skin quite rough, yet his underbelly really soft to the touch. ‘Mildred’ the millipede also had mixed reactions, some residents just wanted to watch as she investigated where she was on Alex’s hand, but others held her in their hands and felt her ‘200’ tiny feet, expressing they were ‘like brushing a toothbrush over your hand.’ ‘Genie’ the rat enjoyed being stroked and her long tail provided quite a talking point, as some people commented on their dislike of rats and others found them quite cute! The giant snails also prompted much conversation. Alex said that all snail slime was actually good for anti-ageing properties and could be used in creams. But after much discussion about this, most residents agreed they would just stick to their usual day creams!
Activities Co-ordinator Kerith Pepperdine said ‘It was wonderful, a very special afternoon. Residents are still talking about it and I’m sure we will still be talking about it in weeks to come. It was fabulous to see these animals close at hand and to learn about their environments.”
If you’d like to find our more about Zoolab and the animal experiences they offer visit www.zoolabuk.com
