August 18, 2014
Unconditional love has the power to heal, to strengthen, and to capture our hearts. The kind of love only animals can give. Just ask the thousands of patients at Morristown Medical Center who’ve participated in the hospital’s Pet Therapy Program.
There are 80 active pet therapy teams, each made up of a volunteer and a trained dog (certified by licensed organizations). About 45 hospital visits are made each week with dogs selected for their calm, affectionate and pet-me-please-please-please demeanor.
Research shows that pet therapy provides emotional comfort, decreases depression and anxiety, and even lowers blood pressure. For hospitalized patients, a wagging tail and a warm heart can also help them feel less lonely.
Be sure to attend the hospital’s upcoming conference, “The Value of Human Animal Bond in Healing” on November 3, 2014, at the Hyatt Hotel in Morristown, NJ. Special guest speaker is John Grogan, author of Marley and Me. Event sponsors are needed.