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*