Providing Compassionate Care Through the Power of Pets

“Happiness is a warm puppy.” – Charles Schultz

Charles Schultz knew a thing or two about dogs; after all, he created Peanuts, one of the most enduring and popular comic strips in which a beagle is depicted with the same intellectual depth as his human counterparts.

Allan Wiegman, left, poses with his golden retriever and therapy dog, Kiya, along with Sarah Bartlett and her Australian shepherd and therapy dog, Cooper. Both Kiya and Cooper are certified bringers of joy.

At Hospice of Humboldt, our patients know their pets are a major part of their well-being. The value patients place on companionship with their pets is what led to the creation of our pet therapy program in 2010. These days, patients at the Ida Emmerson Hospice House and local skilled-nursing facilities receive visits from Kiya or Cooper, our two pet therapy dogs.

Hospice of Humboldt therapy dog, Kiya, visits with a patient at the Ida Emmerson Hospice House.

“The dedication of our volunteers and their dogs is incredible. Our patients and their families really experience a sense of well-being whenever they spend time with Kiya or Cooper,” says Kathy Evansizer, volunteer coordinator for Hospice of Humboldt.

All canine members of the pet care program are thoroughly trained, are certified through Therapy Dogs International or Pet Partners, have current vaccinations and have achieved a successful score on our in-house therapy dog assessment test. Along with this training, the dogs’ handlers Allan (Kiya) and Sarah (Cooper), have completed training as patient care volunteers.

In a 2024 review published in National Library of Medicine, researchers reported that animal-assisted therapy can alleviate symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and depression, while promoting social engagement and emotional comfort among patients receiving end-of-life care. These benefits are no surprise to our patients greeted by Kiya and Cooper. “Their calming presence often lifts spirits and fosters a sense of peace for patients, families, and staff,” says Evansizer.

For patients receiving care at home, Hospice of Humboldt provides support for patients and their pets’ needs. Pet Peace of Mind is a national program that enables hospice patients to keep their pets at home throughout their end-of-life journey. Entirely supported by generous Hospice of Humboldt donors, the program supports qualifying patients with volunteer and financial services to help with pet care needs.

The program can provide pet medications and supplies, food and treats, dog walking, routine vet care, and assistance finding new homes for pets.

This month, we salute the power of pets who warm our hearts and are grateful for the volunteers and staff members who improve our patients’ lives and the lives of their pets with compassionate care.

This story originally appeared in the Senior News.