It has been found that petting or cuddling an animal can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and ease depression. Because a primary goal of hospice services is comfort care, pet companionship is ideal for hospice patients.
CorsoCare Hospice has volunteer opportunities for individuals and their gentle, well-behaved pets to visit hospice patients in facility settings and occasionally private homes. Pets must be at least one year old, current on their veterinary shots, and must be "interviewed" by our staff. To be considered, animals do NOT have to be certified therapy pets - though therapy animals are much needed as well. We can provide resources to certify an animal at the owner/volunteer’s expense should you desire this certification.
CorsoCare provides all PPE necessary to ensure a safe and enriching experience on every visit. You will also be provided ongoing one-on-one staff support throughout your service with us and will be invited to education opportunities and appreciation events.
If you have any questions or need further information, please contact Nikki Gerber, Volunteer Administrative Assistant, at (248) 260-8257 or Nicole.Gerber@corsocare.com.
"We don’t always need advice. Sometimes, all we need is a hand to hold, an ear to listen, and a heart that understands. Sometimes all we need is a dog."
