ANN ARBOR — Hospice of Michigan is seeking volunteers who can bring their pets to visit patients facing serious illness across southeast Michigan.
The nonprofit organization said pet volunteers provide companionship that eases anxiety and reduces loneliness. The visits also create meaningful moments of connection for patients and their families, while giving caregivers an opportunity to rest or attend to personal needs
“There’s something truly special that happens when a patient sees a dog wagging its tail or feels a cat curl up beside them,” Ruth Moore-Lilly, a Hospice of Michigan volunteer program manager, said in a statement.
“We often watch faces light up, conversations begin and moments of anxiety give way to smiles with our pet volunteers. For many patients, these visits become one of the highlights of their day, and we’re looking for more compassionate volunteers and their pets to help create those meaningful moments,” Moore-Lilly said.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and complete orientation, background checks and fingerprinting before beginning volunteer work. No prior experience is required. Schedules are flexible.
While certified therapy animals are preferred, certification is not required. Individuals who have experienced a recent personal loss are asked to wait one year before volunteering.
Community members interested in volunteering can contact Ruth Moore-Lilly at 248-387-6019, ext. 101 or rmoore-lilly@hom.org.