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*
