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Story last updated at 3:17 PM EST on January 21, 2007
Pet-A-Pet premise: Being with pets provides healthy benefits
oakland press staff reports
Pet-A-Pet began in 1986 with Ruth Curry and a handful of dedicated volunteers visiting local nursing homes with their pets.
Since that time, the program has grown to over 300 volunteers who also visit with abused and developmentally disabled children and adults and hospital rehabilitation patients throughout the Metro Detroit.
The organization is seeking additional volunteers to help continue its efforts. Pets have often played an integral part of growing up in a family setting through childhood and adult life. Yet in their declining years, older citizens are often placed in an environment which does not allow for the companionship of animals. Research in animal-facilitated therapy has shown the benefits of the human/animal bond to include:
lowering blood pressure through stroking and petting
relieving loneliness, boredom and depression
providing sensory stimulation, especially touch
facilitating conversation during and after visits
stimulating laughter
increasing moral since animals are non-judgmental
providing an outlet for emotional expression
providing a feeling of being loved and accepted
Volunteer information
It is the intention of Pet-A-Pet for the program to be as rewarding for its volunteers, and their pets, as it is for the individuals they are visiting. Volunteers may discontinue their visits at any time if they feel uncomfortable. Pet-A-Pet advises that initial visits may start out to be emotionally draining, but as the relationship with the people or certain individuals grows, the visits can become an enriching aspect of their volnteers' lives.
The visits are more important than some people realize. The pet will be the center of attention and should enjoy the new environment. People who volunteer often will make new friendships, and hear some interesting stories.
Volunteers needed
Pet-A-Pet Club is in need of volunteers. If you are interested, please contact Elaine Chiappetta at (586) 247-5324
