“Pawsitive Pals” San Diego Hospice Pet Therapy Program

Dogs have a great role to play in hospitals. This video is particularly poignant as it explains the therapeutic value of dogs in Palliative medicine.

The Pawsitive Pals Pet Therapy Program at San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine has a remarkable way of connecting with patients on a very special level.

This video features certified dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds who show how they reduce loneliness, depression, stress, and isolation while promoting relaxation and improved morale.

They are purebreds and rescued mutts, in all shapes and sizes. The one thing they have in common is the joy and love they bring to the patients and families at San Diego Hospice and The Institute for Palliative Medicine.

Visits from Tucker, a Goldendoodle, have made all the difference to four year old Venezia and her parents.

Venezia’s father says, “You actually feel the joy when they’re together. I mean, I can feel her heartbeat. These memories, you’re going to remember them for the rest of your life. With Venezia, you know, being in San Diego Hospice, it means a lot for us to spend quality time.” 

Lauren, a Pawsitive Pals volunteer, talks about her experience with her dog Duffy, “Working with Duffy as a therapy dog has allowed me to know him as a totally different dog than he is at home. He truly has an affinity for people who are ill. There’s a totally different side to Duffy when he is with his patients…and these ARE his patients. Duffy is very caring and knows exactly what do.”