Pet Pals teaches pet owners to visit patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health centers. Pet Pals began 15 years ago when researchers learned that animals can actually help sick people get better.
There are many reasons Pet Pals is popular with sick people. "Just petting an animal will bring a smile to even the sickest person," says Dr. Elaine Proctor. "petting animal makes sick people feel happy. But it also helps lower blood pressure and relaxes people."
Many people ask what pets make the best animal "visitors." Pet Pals has the following pets : cats, birds, monkeys, pigs, and rabbits. Pet Pals can also help people wits larger pets such as horses find similar organizations.
There are many ways you can learn to be a Pet Pals volunteer. Many high schools offer classes taught by experienced teachers. If there are no classes in your city, Pet Pals will send you a videotape or CD that teaches you how to volunteer.