Hospice of the Western Reserve Launches Pet Peace of Mind

Innovative New Program Supports the Bond Between Patients and Their Pets 

Hospice of the Western Reserve (HWR) has launched an innovative new program, Pet Peace of Mind®, aimed at helping hospice patients care for their pets and alleviate  worries about their pets’ welfare and future. Offered by trained pet therapy volunteers in consultation with a veterinarian, the program makes it possible for the nonprofit agency’s patients to stay united with their pets throughout their illness. The program is currently being piloted in Medina and will roll out to HWR’s entire 10-county service area within the next few months.

“Pet Peace of Mind aligns with our mission of relieving suffering, providing comfort and ensuring our patients and their families have the best quality of life possible,” said John Mastrojohn, Chief Innovations Officer.

“When someone is living with an advanced illness, caring for their pet becomes more difficult. Thanks to the support provided by this volunteer-driven program, our patients will be able to continue  benefiting from the unconditional love, comfort and companionship provided by their pet at a time when it is needed most.”  

Support will be available for both dog and cat owners. Initially, volunteer services will include transportation to veterinarian appointments or groomers, veterinarian consultation, food and medication delivery, litterbox maintenance, walking and exercising dogs and administrative support. Ultimately, the program will expand to include assisting patients and their caregivers with making plans to find new homes for their pets.
 
About Hospice of the Western Reserve
Hospice of the Western Reserve (HWR) provides palliative and end-of-life care, caregiver support and bereavement services throughout Northern Ohio. The nonprofit agency’s mission focuses on relieving suffering, enhancing comfort, promoting quality of life, fostering choice in end-of-life care and supporting effective grieving. Pet Peace of Mind is one of many non-reimbursed programs provided by HWR that rely on community philanthropy to exist. To make a gift supporting the agency, visit hospicewr.org/donate or call  855.475.0245.   

About Pet Peace of Mind®
Pet Peace of Mind, a national nonprofit headquartered in Salem, Oregon, offers the national program to hospices, hospitals and home health care agencies throughout the country. The program provides tools,  training and expertise that allow health care providers to incorporate services to help care for their patients’ pets.