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There's a new breed of volunteer walking the
halls of health care facilities...many breeds, in fact!
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Therapy Pet Pals of Texas (TPPT) pets come in many sizes and breeds--from a
cuddly feline to a majestic Great Dane. Founded in 1984 and incorporated in 1990, TPPT is
a nonprofit, 501(C)(3) volunteer organization that shares the love of pets with
institutionalized individuals who are deprived of the very special and unconditional love
that animals can give. Through grants and generosity of friends and business sponsors,
TPPT continues to grow and spread happiness to many ill and elderly people. |
Why Pet Therapy Is So Important
Numerous health care studies have been conducted that indicate that regular contact
with a pet reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, encourages exercise, promotes intimacy
and contributes to a general feeling of well-being. Pet ownership can even aid in recovery
from serious illness and promote longer life!
Skeptics of pet therapy often become believers after they witness the joy and enthusiasm
with which the animals are welcomed. The animals encourage smiles and laughter, provide
help in forgetting pain, relieve boredom and offer unlimited, unconditional love and attention.
Sadly, a TPPT member and their Pet Pal may be the only visitors some residents
and patients ever receive. |
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The TPPT Approach to Pet Therapy
The TPPT pet visitation program is designed to allow residents and patients to bond with
their adoptive pet and volunteer. Once members choose their institution, it becomes their
regular "home." Having the same volunteer and pet visit the same facility
promotes the process of bonding and familiarization. Volunteers, pets, and residents soon
come to know each other and, in many cases, develop lasting friendships. Residents soon
feel as though they have a pet of their own again.
As long as there are institutionalized citizens, TPPT members will always be needed.
Many members believe that they have found the perfect volunteer organization...one that
allows them to combine their love of animals with their desire to make a real difference
in someone's life. TPPT volunteers come in a broad range of ages and from all walks of life. However, they
have one common and uniting goal...sharing the love of their precious pets.
Who TPPT Serves
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Since that first visit in 1984, TPPT members have shared their pets' love
with an ever-growing number of health care facilities.
Studies indicate that nursing homes are one of the areas in greatest need
of volunteers.
TPPT places approximately 85% of all Pet Pal volunteers in
nursing and convalescent homes, believing this is one of the most
forgotten segments in today's society.
 | Medical and Rehabilitation
Hospitals |
| Psychiatric and Handicapped Facilities.
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| MHMR and Acute Care Centers and
Special Needs Facilities |
Many health care facilities are requesting Pet Pal volunteers after
learning about the success of TPPT's pet visitation programs. |
How to Volunteer
Volunteers are always needed to serve facilities requesting
a Pet Pal program. Do you have a loving pet,
and are you willing to make the volunteer commitment? If so, TPPT needs you! If you
would like to become a member or sponsor of Therapy Pet Pals of Texas, Inc., read our
Requirements for your pet and yourself
and the
How to
Volunteer page. |
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