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Pet Peace of Mind
This groundbreaking program enables hospice patients to keep their Pets at home with them throughout their end-of-life journey. It is another way - a significant way - that Banfield Charitable Trust continues its mission to fund or administer programs that find innovative ways to keep Pets and families together. Watch our video to learn more.
...the woman dying of leukemia tells her hospice volunteer that her dogs needing to be let out is the reason she gets up in the morning...
As Pet lovers, we have all had the experience of our Pet understanding when something was wrong, or sensing when we weren't feeling well. They comfort us, they ease our tension, they reduce our fear, they love us no matter what. We can only try imagine how much more significant this unique bond is for hospice patients.
For many in hospice care, their physical condition leads to a decrease of previously enjoyed social opportunities and relationships. Their Pets offer unconditional love and acceptance, comfort and companionship when it's needed most - when friends and family aren't seen as frequently, or when words are too hard to say.
...a man in the hospital tells the hospice chaplain how concerned he is
that no one has yet promised to adopt his retriever...
Unfortunately, many people in hospice care are also physically or financially unable to care for their Pets. Simple tasks like feeding, walking, grooming, or a trip to the veterinarian are difficult, if not impossible. Pet Peace of Mind allows hospice patients to complete their end-of-life journey with the comfort and companionship of their Pet, without worrying about their Pet's current or future needs.
Hospice programs improve the quality of a patient's life by offering comfort and dignity. Hospice deals with the emotional, social and spiritual needs of the patient and their caregivers. Pet Peace of Mind provides hospice patients and their caregivers the assurance that we - caring supporters -- and their hospice provider understand the important role of their Pets in contributing to their emotional and spiritual well-being.
..."People come to visit but they can only stay a little while
and then they have to go. But my cat, she's always with me..."
Many hospice organizations want to start Pet care programs, but simply can't afford it. In most cases, the funding they secure must go towards meeting the needs of patient care. That's what makes this initiative unique. Nonprofit hospice programs across the nation now receive training and funding to provide Pet care for their patients. Pet Peace of Mind is modeled after a successful program created by Delana Taylor-McNac, who is Program Manager for this important initiative at Banfield Charitable Trust.
We invite you to join us in providing comfort and peace of mind to hospice patients. If you're ready to help, click here.
If you're with a nonprofit hospice organization and interested in learning more about participating in Pet Peace of Mind, click here.
