Page 11 - Real Rochdale Issue 23 August 2024

Calderbrook Alpacas – The delightful Embracing imperfection

world of fluffy misfits Calderbrook Alpacas began with just six alpacas and has
now grown to a herd of 14, plus Lambo the sheep, who
amusingly thinks he’s an alpaca. Each alpaca at Calderbrook
They say that life’s misfits are usually the most colourful characters. And that is is a non-breeding male due to minor imperfections that you
certainly the case with this group of fluffy, sassy and mischievous alpacas, who wouldn’t want to continue in a blood line, ensuring the
reside in a field in Littleborough. highest standards of alpaca conformity and fleece quality in
the alpaca world.

Tucked away in an idyllic setting close to quirky misfits bring their own unique charm to Joanne, fully licensed with an Animal Exhibition Licence
Rochdale canal and the Summit Inn pub, the farm, delighting visitors with their cheeky from Rochdale MBC and fully insured for on and off site
Calderbrook Alpacas is a heartwarming and antics, unusual toilet stances, and distinct visits, has meticulously selected each alpaca from
whimsical escape from the everyday grind. It’s personalities. registered breeders across the UK. The farm’s dedication to
populated by alpacas that are sold by quality and care shines through in every interaction.
breeders as pet boys due to various, minor Established by Joanne in March 2019,
imperfections that make them unsuitable for Calderbrook Alpacas is dedicated to creating Despite their imperfections, these alpacas are anything but
breeding. lasting memories and spreading joy. As Joanne ordinary. Their cheeky antics and unique personalities
puts it, her greatest pleasure is “creating provide endless entertainment and a sense of calm. Joanne
However, they’re welcomed with open arms memories for the public and making people describes them as very ‘zen’ to be around, creating a peace-
by owner Joanne Schembri, as she says these smile.” ful and chilled atmosphere while also making people laugh.

A visit to Calderbrook Alpacas offers peace, tranquillity,
The therapeutic power of alpacas and a chance to leave the stresses of life behind.

Joanne Schembri is not just an alpaca It’s a unique and memorable experience, perfect for
enthusiast; she’s a qualified provider of Alpaca reuniting with long-lost family and friends amidst the
Assisted Activities with CPD certification. beautiful surroundings of Littleborough.

Calderbrook Alpacas work closely with care Calderbrook Alpacas isn’t just about spending an hour out;
homes, schools, children with additional needs it’s about immersing yourself in an environment that
and dementia patients, offering a unique form promotes well-being and happiness, whilst creating
of therapy. Alpacas, with their gentle and memories with these gentle, curious creatures.
calming presence, are particularly effective in
reducing stress, increasing trust, and
fostering social interaction. Their
non-judgmental nature makes them ideal for
therapeutic settings, aiding in both verbal and
non-verbal communication.

Interacting with alpacas has well-documented
physical and mental benefits, including
lowering blood pressure and reducing anxiety.
Joanne explains: “Alpacas are excellent at
providing stress reduction, increasing trust,
and creating socialisation opportunities for
people. Who can resist getting up close to a
fluffy alpaca?”

These activities can combat loneliness,
promote empathy, encourage nurturing traits,
and boost self-esteem and independence.

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