BC Pets and Friends

BC Pets and Friends is committed to providing and promoting the healing comfort and companionship of animals through volunteer pet therapy visits.

BC Pets and Friends brings volunteers and their pets (dogs, cats and rabbits) into senior's residences, hospitals, hospices, cancer treatment centres, mental health units, colleges, and other similar settings to share the unconditional love and acceptance with those most in need. Patients, seniors, students and veterans, patients, have the chance to pet, cuddle, and interact with a non-judgemental furry friend.

Studies have shown that pet therapy a) reduces feelings of stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels and increasing ‘feel good’ hormones like oxytocin (and dopamine); b) improves social skills by sparking conversation; c) provides emotional support through unconditional love and companionship, helping individuals cope with loneliness and isolation, and d) helps to normalize the environment, especially when visiting hospitals.

Our pet therapy program provides free pet therapy visitations across the Lower Mainland, uplifting spirits and fostering connections.