Pet Volunteers Bring Joy to Hinds Hospice Patients in Fresno
Hello, dear listeners, and welcome to Ope Vox, your go-to podcast for health and wellness in your golden years. Have you ever felt your worries melt away when a dog wags its tail at you? In Fresno, California, therapy dogs are bringing that kind of joy to folks in hospice care, helping them feel less alone. Today, we’re diving into the Hinds Hospice Dog Visit Volunteer Program, inspired by a story from ABC30 Fresno. We’ll explore how these furry friends lift spirits, what science says about pet therapy, and how you can bring a bit of that magic into your life. So, grab a cozy seat—maybe with a pet nearby—and let’s get started.
This story from ABC30 Fresno shines a light on Hinds Hospice’s Dog Visit Volunteer Program, launched in 2023. Picture this: dogs like Chloe and Faith, with their wagging tails and gentle nuzzles, visit hospice patients weekly to ease anxiety and loneliness. Volunteers like Lorna Mitchell, who brings Chloe, and Sarah Mikolavich, a retired nurse with Faith, are making a big difference. Sven Hamilton, the program’s director, says these visits bring joy and a sense of normalcy to patients facing tough times. Right now, the program has just three dogs, each carefully trained and certified, like passing the Canine Good Citizen exam. Health experts note that pet visits can boost emotional well-being, helping patients and families relax. But with only a few dogs, the program’s reach is limited, and they’re hoping to grow.
Why does this matter? Hospice care can be isolating, especially for older adults. The National Institutes of Health says pet interactions can lower stress and boost happiness—think of a dog’s cuddle as a warm hug for your heart. A 2019 study found 80% of older adults felt happier after pet visits. At Hinds Hospice, these dogs are trained to stay calm around medical equipment, making them perfect companions. Want to try this at home? If you have a pet, spend 10 minutes a day petting them—it can lower stress, says the NIH. No pet? Check out Pet Partners at petpartners.org for local therapy dog programs or watch pet videos online for a quick mood boost. If you’re in Fresno and have a calm dog, call Hinds Hospice at (559) 317-6016 to learn about volunteering.
That’s a wrap for today’s Ope Vox. The Hinds Hospice program shows how a dog’s love can light up even the toughest days. Why not try a small step this week? Have a pet that’s helped you through a hard time? We’d love to hear about it! Join us next time for more ways to stay healthy and happy.
