VITAS invites friendly and well-behaved pets (and their owners) to join the Paw PalsSM program, in which animals and their humans learn how to visit patients at the end of life. A registered VITAS Paw PalsSM visitor can offer comfort, bring back memories, encourage activity and provide unconditional love to VITAS patients and families.“Pet therapy can sometimes reach a patient when no one else can,” says Karen A. Hale, Manager of Volunteer Services. “Our Paw PalsSM brighten the day for everyone when they visit. I think even the animals know what an important function they fulfill.” Paw PalsSM must be well-groomed and have up-to-date health records. Your commitment is completely up to you, whether you spend one day a week or one day a month. Your time is always appreciated. For more information on VITAS’ Paw PalsSM program, contact Karen A. Hale at 203-437-3127.
VITAS Innovative Hospice Care® is the nation’s largest provider of end-of-life care. A pioneer and leader in the hospice movement since 1978, VITAS has been caring for the terminally ill and their families in CT since 2004.