Hospice has provided loving, end-of-life care for my grandparents and a few friends. The professional staff and volunteers offered support to loved ones, caregivers and family. It was comforting to know that they had choices and were surrounded by a team of people who really cared.
I wanted to be a hospice volunteer to “give back” for the wonderful care my family received. During my Good Dog Foundation therapy dog training I learned that they partner with the VNSNY Hospice Care and I thought that was the perfect opportunity to get involved. The VNSNY opened Haven in February to give patients and their families continuity of care should they need or want to be in the hospital with around the clock care.
Jeanne Dennis, Sr vice president of the VNSNY Hospice Care, wrote an article for the Huffington Post titled “Pets and Hospice Care: ‘The Warmth of Touch’“. Take a look at the article — there is even a nice photo of Tug. It’s an honor when someone welcomes us into their final days and I am touched by the gentle, genuine way Tug connects with those we visit.