Lama Joel visits residents of the long-term care unit in San Rafael

They also found their Jules. This Monday, a lama opened the door of the USLD Les Mûriers Long-Term Care Facility at Fréjus Hospital.

His arrival was made possible by the associations' donations and the participation of Eleanor Chevalier, a facilitator within the foundation, and was eagerly awaited by the elderly, impatient to embrace him.

And soon they will ask: “Where's Jules?” Benjamin Leroy Blanc owns a llama farm, called Var lamas, in the Six-Fours area, where he cares for approximately 50 llamas, including 3 llamas designated for visiting hospitals or healthcare environments.

Among them is Jules, today's star. “It looked nice, I combed it.” Benjamin smiled. He pays special attention to his animals, which are raised with respect. He confirms: “The lama must be happy to work.”

Jules is twelve years old, and has been doing pet therapy as his “job” since he was two years old. Therefore, he is accustomed to contact, and the elder enjoys being able to cuddle his fleece, with Benjamin's encouragement.

“My role is to ask them. The situation should serve as a vector to trigger a gesture, a word or a laugh. I ask them to open their hand, raise it and lean towards Jules to pet it…the animal elicits a laugh.” React, and reinforce the person by telling them they can move and touch Jules.”

Tender and unique moments

Exactly what happened to Dennis Albentosa. Encouraged by Benjamin, the resident rose from her seat to approach the lama.

Great emotions ran through the room as she clung to the camel's neck, pressing her head against his fur. Denise was proud to share a sweet and unique moment with the unusual animal.

But Jules did not stop there, as many others are still clamoring for his presence. So, after receiving treatment, Jules visited the guest rooms.

This moment, hidden from view, gives way to more intimacy and some confessions: “I love animals. I grew up with animals on the farm.”Simon reveals Jules is stroking his neck.

“Memory is greatly stimulated. Childhood memories come back during pet treatments.”“, explains Elinor Chevalier, the facilitator behind this initiative.

The next meet will be organized in mid-March, this time with a foal.