Slimy snails and slithering snakes visit Deangate Care Home

A SLIMY encounter with giant snails and slithering snakes took place at a Barnsley care home.

Elderly residents at Deangate Care Home, in Mapplewell, took turns holding creepy crawlies and reptiles as part of an animal therapy session.

Animal handling company ZooLab brought along the exotic visitors, including giant African snails, lizards and snakes.

Julia Chambers, home manager at Deangate Care Home, said: “Holding snakes and lizards might not be for everyone but all our residents got a thrill from seeing them.

“Those brave enough to handle the animals said they loved it. It brought smiles to everyone’s faces.

“The animal therapy sessions have been run in several Hill Care homes in the past and have proven hugely beneficial – with residents talking about their encounters for days afterwards.

“We’d like to thank ZooLab for coming along and we can’t wait to see who or what they bring along next time.”