One of the most frequent requests made by Brighton’s hospice patients is to be visited by a furry companion. Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, in the hospice setting is so much more than a simple visit with an animal. The unconditional love and affection of a therapy animal does so much to lift the spirit of those on their end-of life journey. Not only are these visits a welcome distraction from the daily routine, but therapy animal visits also promote activity, conversation and emotional connection between the patient and the animal and handler.
We welcome dogs, cats, rabbits & more; however, we require all animals and handlers to be evaluated by a recognized organization specializing in the certification of therapy animals prior to visiting with hospice patients. These organizations have strict criteria for prospective therapy pets to ensure that both handler and animal have proper training and are fully prepared to safely interact with patients and their families.
- If your pet has not been through the therapy certification process and you don’t know where to begin, contact us for more information on local pet therapy organizations. In the meantime, ask us how you can participate in Animal-Related Engagement Activities (virtual opportunity).
The amount of time you give is flexible and scheduled around your availability. We do take into account your location to assign patient visits that are within or near your own community. We currently have a need for hospice companions in the Milwaukee area. Including Washington County, Waukesha County, Ozaukee County, and Milwaukee County.
Contact Emily, Volunteer Coordinator, at: 262-281-2062 or ewammer@brightonhospice.com, for more information on becoming a Hospice Companion with Brighton Hospice. You can also find us on the web at www.brightonhospice.com.
