But staff at St Philips Care Home in Hawick showed on Friday that different is definitely on the menu at their Buccleuch and St Margaret's care centres, with the visit of two cuddly alpacas.
In the past, dogs and even Shetland ponies have been brought in as animal buddies for the residents, but this is the first time the establishment has tried using the South American camelid as a form of pet therapy.
The alpacas in question, Rory and Pearson from Velvet Hall Alpacas in Innerleithen, were a little hesitant when entering the building but soon chilled out ... especially when their hosts fed them slices of carrot.
And the residents themselves were certainly delighted to see them.
Audrey Hamilton's face was a picture as she held out carrots for Pearson.
Every resident had a chance to meet the beasts.
Manageress Lisa Lothian was delighted with her charges' response to the visit.
She said: "Just look at their faces.
Dot Montgomery is all smiles as she pets Pearson.
"I think they have all definitely enjoyed it.
Looking after the alpacas was Jean Macdonald of Velvet Hall Alpacas, who said she was hoping to take them along to more such establishments.
She said: "Generally speaking, they just seem to put a smile on people's faces.
"Sometimes, I think the visits are just as well received by the members of the staff as much as the residents.