Hospice of the Valley was the valley’s first hospice organization created in Arizona in 1977, and today, decades later, is still doing what they can to support residents across Arizona. As part of their mission, they care for all in need, no matter the availability of insurance or financial resources. This has been their motto since their inception, providing unique in-home supportive care to those who need it.
One of the special ways that sets Hospice of the Valley apart is their pet program. The volunteer program that was started in 2006 serves their patients, families, and staff with cheer-filled visits from registered therapy animals. “These visits bring joy and comfort to our patients, reducing stress and anxiety, distracting from pain, and bringing back happy memories,” shares Stacia Ortega, Director of Volunteers at Hospice of the Valley. Adding that for family members, the visits are a soothing break for a difficult day and an opportunity to see their loved ones really enjoying a happy interaction. There is no charge for the pet visits, and they take place in a variety of spots, including the patient’s homes, in-patient units, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living centers, group homes, Ryan House, and Dementia Care and Education Campus for Hospice of the Valley.
You may be wondering why pets for hospice patients and their families, but the reason is straightforward and simple. “Pets bring such joy to our patients and their families because they are there just to provide comfort and joy. Pets do not see illness; they just want to connect and provide love,” says Ortega. “Our smaller dogs can get into bed or on a lap of a patient, and that is often missing for people who are sick.”
Pet Therapy Coordinator Carol Keenan shares this program is such a great addition to the success of Hospice of the Valley. “Every day we have the opportunity to change lives, and that’s what our pet therapy teams do. They change our patients’ and families’ lives for the better.”
The organization is very hopeful that in the months and years ahead, the volunteer pet program will continue to grow and prosper to help support the needs of their patients and families. Ortega says, “It is our hope and goal to grow our program so that every patient and family who wants a visit is able to receive one. We are always thrilled to accept more pet therapy animals as well, including dogs, cats, bunnies, and mini horses, and to connect interested pet owners with programs that certify pet therapy animals. Once certified, Hospice of the Valley will train the pet owners as volunteers and match the pet team with people in need of a cheery visit.”
Hospice of the Valley is always seeking additional support as well. “We support the pet therapy program as part of a commitment to nurture the emotional and spiritual well-being of patients, families, and staff. We are grateful for donations from our community that help encourage and support our pet therapy teams to give of their time and compassion,” says Flood.
Currently, volunteers work directly with patients and families by reading, bringing those care pets to brighten someone’s day, or even sharing music therapy to create a calming environment. Flood says, “When our volunteers make home visits, they provide companionship to our patients and a much-needed break for family caregivers.”
If you would like more information on Hospice of the Valley, or to learn more about volunteering or making a donation, call 602-530-6992 or visit hov.org/donate.