LAKEWOOD - Hospice Chautauqua County has announced a new program, "Pet Peace of Mind," which recognizes and actively supports the unique bond between Hospice patients and their pets. The program began last month and aligns with the Hospice Chautauqua County mission to provide advanced therapies and services for patients.
Pet Peace of Mind allows patients to complete their end-of-life journey without worrying about their pets' current or future needs. The initiative provides volunteer pet-care services for patients who are unable to care for their pets while on Hospice. Services include assistance with pet food, financial assistance with routine veterinary care, transporting the pet to veterinary appointments, pet boarding, walking and more.
Pet Peace of Mind is a national program developed and funded by Banfield Charitable Trust. Hospice Chautauqua County is the first Hospice to start the program in New York state, placing it among a select group of Hospice providers across the country that are ensuring this important patient need is met.
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Photo Courtesy of petpeaceofmind.org
Ron Sellers, CEO and president of Hospice Chautauqua County, stated, "Pets are an important part of lives. It is comforting to our patients and their families that their pets will stay at home and will be well cared for. Hospice is thrilled that we have received funding for this pilot project which will no doubt add immeasurably to our patients' happiness and quality of life. There is no doubt that we will continue this service as part of our comprehensive Hospice care here in Chautauqua County."
For more information about the Pet Peace of Mind program, call Hospice Chautauqua County at 338-0035, ext. 216.