Animal-assisted Therapy Program
Animals have an amazing ability to raise the spirits of patients. The Animal-assisted Therapy Program provides therapeutic companionship to patients in a variety of hospital units, as well as to some of our homebound patients. Research shows that interactions between humans and animals have positive psychological and physiological benefits for hospitalized and
homebound patients.
Therapy Dogs
A visit from a pet therapy dog can be a good distraction from a patient's illness or pain, and it can bring a positive change to a homebound patient's daily routine. Interaction with animals encourages activity in patients.
- The program uses only certified pet therapy dogs. A trained evaluator has tested these animals in areas such as temperament and obedience. A current health record for each dog is kept on file.
- Visits are held three to four times per month on each unit.
- The program coordinator and the patient schedule homebound patient visits.
- The program is presented to schools and community groups.
Opportunities to Help
The Animal-assisted Therapy Program is made possible through grants and contributions. Please contact the Fund Development Department at 215-481-4438 for information about making a donation to this program.
If you would like information about volunteering and the pet certification program, please call 215-481-5985.
For More Information
Volunteer Resources Department
Abington Memorial Hospital
1200 Old York Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-481-2490
215-481-4954 (fax)
http://www.amh.org/
amh-volunteer@amh.org (email)
Or download our application
