Compassionate Care Through the Power of Pets

“Happiness is a warm puppy.” —Charles Schulz

Charles Schulz knew a thing or two about dogs. After all, he created “Peanuts,” one of the most enduring and popular comic strips, in which a beagle is depicted with the same intellectual depth as his human counterparts.

WARM PUPPIES — Golden retriever Kiya and his human handler, Allan Wiegman, and Cooper, an Australian shepherd and therapy dog, with volunteer Sarah Bartlett, and certified bringers of joy. Submitted photo.

At Hospice of Humboldt, our patients know their pets are a major part of their well-being. The value patients place on companionship with their pets is what led to the creation of our pet therapy program in 2010. These days, patients at the Ida Emmerson Hospice House and local skilled-nursing facilities receive visits from Kiya or Cooper, our two pet therapy dogs.

“The dedication of our volunteers and their dogs is incredible,” said Kathy Evansizer, hospice’s volunteer coordinator. “Our patients and their families really experience a sense of well-being whenever they spend time with Kiya or Cooper.”

All canine members of the pet care program are thoroughly trained and certified through Therapy Dogs International or Pet Partners; their vaccinations are up to date and they have achieved successful scores on our in-house therapy dog assessment test. And the dogs’ handlers, Allan Wiegman (Kiya) and Sarah Bartlett (Cooper), have completed training as patient care volunteers.

In a 2024 study published by the National Library of Medicine, researchers reported that animal-assisted therapy can alleviate symptoms such as pain, anxiety and depression while promoting social engagement and emotional comfort among patients receiving end-of-life care.

These benefits are no surprise to patients who spend time with Kiya and Cooper. “Their calming presence often lifts spirits and fosters a sense of peace for patients, families and staff,” Evansizer said.

For patients receiving care at home, Hospice of Humboldt also provides support for patients and their pets’ needs. Pet Peace of Mind is a national program that enables hospice patients to keep their pets at home throughout their end-of-life journey. Entirely supported by Hospice of Humboldt donors, the program supports qualifying patients with volunteer and financial services to help with pet care needs at home.

The program can provide pet medications and supplies, food and treats, dog walking, routine vet care and assistance in finding new homes for pets when the time comes.

We salute the power of pets that warm our hearts, and are grateful for the volunteers and staff members who improve our patients’ lives and the lives of their pets with compassionate care.

Jarad Petroske is Outreach and Development coordinator at Hospice of Humboldt.