We are excited to announce that Cooper will be hosting PAWS for People volunteer training beginning in March 2023. You may have seen sweet, furry friends on green leashes visiting in our hallways. These special pets – and their people – are pet therapy volunteers with PAWS for People, a volunteer-driven, nonprofit pet therapy organization. Cooper University Hospital has long partnered with PAWS to share the special comfort, joy, and healing that pets bring our patients and fellow team members, and we look forward to supporting PAWS specialized training.
Pet therapy is more than just a visit from a dog, cat, or bunny. Petting an animal triggers a calming physical response with the release of the “feel good” hormones, oxytocin and serotonin. Studies show that even short interactions with a pet can ease anxiety, elevate mood, reduce heart rate, and create a sense of well-being.
PAWS trains volunteers with their own gentle, affectionate pets to visit places like Cooper University Hospital. Do you have a sweet, people-friendly, gentle, dog, cat, or bunny? Would you like to give back to your community? If so, PAWS could use your help.
PAWS volunteer training is a two-session course that includes an evaluation of the person/pet team, an introduction to pet therapy, and instruction on best practices for visits.
Volunteers commit to two visits each month at PAWS partnering facilities. PAWS staff supports teams throughout their training and visiting, including a guided first visit and ongoing assistance with placements. The first step is to complete the PAWS volunteer application here.
For more information about PAWS for People, visit www.PawsforPeople.org or contact PAWS at 302.351.5622 or info@pawsforpeople.org.