Pearl the Llama visits with St. Jude patients

Photography by Ann-Margaret Hedges



Llama sightings in downtown Memphis are extremely rare, but St. Jude patients and siblings were treated to a visit from Pearl the Llama September 24 outside the hospital’s Chili Care Center. Pearl is a 5-year-old llama that is certified by Mid-South Therapy Dogs and Friends, an affiliate of the Delta Society.

Patients, siblings and families spent the afternoon petting and hugging Pearl, who weighs in at 350 pounds and enjoys carrot-flavored horse treats as a snack.