Virtually bringing pets and people together to reduce social isolation and loneliness
Social isolation and loneliness are critical public health threats, especially for older adults. Using video chat services like Zoom, Pets Together lets people virtually visit with pets and their owners to stay socially connected and engaged. Volunteers use animals as the starting point for conversation and interaction, bringing joy to individuals across the country.
What People Are Saying:
“I cannot thank you all enough for the wonderful virtual visit. Our residents talked about the program into dinner. It was well-received. We look forward to the next one!”
“Hello, what an amazing experience the virtual pet visit was! Our residents truly enjoyed it and we look forward to doing it again”
“The virtual visit was wonderful. We would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all that you do.
During these trying times any bit of joy that can be brought to our residents is greatly appreciated.”
“Thank you for doing what you do…It has made such a difference in the daily lives of our residents! Every time I come into work, they ask me when they can see the “dogs on tv” again! This past week, they all kept saying “golden doodle” over and over again after their visit! My residents absolutely love their visits and are looking forward to their future visits!!”
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to visit with our residents yesterday at Avante at St. Cloud, in St. Cloud, FL. With us still being restricted on having family and visitors come into the building, your visits give our residents the opportunity to connect with others and share their love for animals. Thanks so much for providing this valuable service.”
“We always have such a good time! The Memory Care residents are ages 85-97! They really enjoy seeing the dogs and goats! Thank you for your time, we appreciate all the volunteers and their pets.”
“I wanted to thank you for the excellent virtual pet therapy visit on Friday.
When I met Cheryl, she told me she refuses to participate in any recreation programming, her only real interest being animals. I’ve been wracking my brain on how I could come even close to providing the comfort of an animal without us being allowed animals in the building currently. Finding your organization and having her brave something new was so inspiring. She trusted me, I trusted you folks, and it worked out perfectly! She loved it, and was so happy to meet all the furry friends from across the United States.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you! I was so impressed with how smoothly everything went, and how attentive and kind you were to Cheryl.”