BETHLEHEM, Pa. – People got a kick out of some visitors to a local retirement home Tuesday afternoon.
It was a sight so rare, people were lining up two hours before just to get in.
A bundled band of baby kangaroos brightened the rec room at Bethlehem North Skilled Nursing and Rehab, nestled in makeshift pouches that felt just like mom.
Their arrivals had residents jumping for Joey. That means ‘baby’ in Kangaroo.
“I came down here and I fell in love with them because they’re so sweet. And they’re so innocent,” said resident Donnie Byington.
The concept of the ‘Therapy Kangaroo’ comes from Matt Aldinger. He raises 11 of them at his farm in Dauphin County.
“We work with different zoos, switching up genetics of zoos,” Aldinger said. “What other exotic animal can you bring out to a retirement community and make somebody’s day?”
Aldinger says the males are dominant and territorial, but the young ones are cool, calm kangaroos.
“I’ve never handled a kangaroo. I can’t wait for my 4 year old to see the picture,” smiled Patricia Wells Loyal.
Aldinger brought three kangaroos, one male and two females, all younger than a year old. They included 8-month old Jules, and a six-month old kangaroo who hasn’t been named yet, but she has quite a story to tell.
“This is her first day out,” Aldinger said. “Trying to break her in a little slower. You can see she’s not stressed out. She’s just enjoying life.”
And bringing enjoyment to residents, staff and visitors.
“I named one Cindy. The baby, I named her Cindy. I don’t know if they’re going to keep that name or not,” said Byington.
Every baby needs a name.
“Any small baby is full of love, and if you don’t love them, then something is wrong with you,” said Wells Loyal.