Pet Companions to Visit Hospice Patients in Altoona

Do you have a certified therapy dog, cat, or other small animal? If so, we are looking for you to join our "Fur-Get-Me-Not Friends" Program at Lily Hospice!

The most frequent request made by Lily Hospice patients is for a visit from a furry pal.

We recognize how important Animal-Assisted Therapy (sometimes called "pet therapy") visits can be to hospice patients. Not only are these visits a welcome distraction from daily routine, but they give patients an opportunity to reminisce about their own beloved pets. For those patients who are a little more withdrawn, therapy animals provide affection without the need for conversation. We often hear hospice patients and their families remark that the therapy animal visits are the highlight of a patient's day or week.

At Lily Hospice, our staff loves and appreciates our volunteers.

We welcome your and your dog, cat, rabbit or other small animal. ALL animals must have proof of therapy animal certification prior to visiting Lily Hospice patients.

The ideal candidate has a certified pet who is up-to-date on all of its vaccines. You will need to go through a background check, about four hours of online training, and another 1-2 hours of in-person training.

Our commitment to you:

• a flexible schedule at a location that is convenient for you,
• consistent and accessible support from our hospice staff team,
• training in working with people in hospice, many of whom live with dementia,
• ongoing guidance and education to ensure that you are comfortable with each assignment.

This volunteer opportunity is available through our Eau Claire office. Contact Laura, Volunteer Coordinator, at 715-492-2663 or lcunningham@lilyhealthcare.org for more information on volunteering with Lily Hospice.