Therapy Pet's Needed

At Heart to Heart Hospice, we know there are different ways to show care for our terminally ill patients, and sometimes we are able to involve a very special pet. Pets, through animal-assisted therapy, provide faithful companionship, comfort and affection.

How can they interact with hospice patients?

• Sitting quietly near a patient, so the patient can enjoy their presence
• Playing fetch with a patient, going after a ball or toy
• Being talked to, petted, or held, per patient preference
• Enjoying performing tricks, such as 'roll over' 'sit' or 'shaking hands'

There are proven benefits to hospice pet therapy for those at the end-of-life. Benefits can include:

• Reducing blood pressure
• Helping reduce physical pain
• Providing calm, with a relaxing and understanding presence
• Promoting improved heart rate and cardiovascular health
• Increasing overall comfort
• Helping facilitate range of motion and strength
• Reducing feelings of loneliness, depression, agitation, and anxiety

*Must be able to provide certification through an accredited organization and up to date vaccination records*