Pet Connections

You and your best friend can become part of Hospice of the Valley’s Pet Connections program. We accept dogs, cats, rabbits and miniature horses into our pet therapy program, which serves patients throughout Maricopa and Northern Pinal counties.

A great therapy animal is friendly, confident and likes visiting people. The most important characteristic is the animal’s temperament. The animal must be friendly, patient, gentle and calm in all types of situations. Dogs should be controllable on a leash, welcoming to strangers, non-aggressive with other dogs and have basic obedience skills. All pet teams must be evaluated and registered with a national pet organization. Hospice of the Valley accepts several national registering agencies. We can assist you in navigating the registration process. 

Pet therapy teams typically visit with patients from one to two hours per week in many different settings: inpatient hospice homes, skilled nursing facilities, group homes, and patients’ private homes. 

Volunteers are required to complete a comprehensive training program prior to any patient assignment. Click here to see our calendar of upcoming volunteer orientation classes.

For more information about participating in the Pet Connections program, please contact a pet team coordinator in your area listed below. Or contact our Volunteer Services department at 602.636.6336 or via email. 

 
Pet Loss Support Group: For those who have experienced the loss of a beloved pet, Hospice of the Valley hosts a Pet Loss Support Group on the first Saturday of every month. Click here for details.
For more pet loss bereavement support resources, click here.