#United States #Bellevue #Pet Partners #therapy animals #National Therapy Animal Day

Celebrating National Therapy Animal Day

April 30 marks a significant event as we recognize National Therapy Animal Day, an initiative founded by Pet Partners, the leading organization in registering therapy animals for animal-assisted interventions. This day serves as a heartfelt tribute to the incredible therapy animals and their volunteer handlers who dedicate their time and love to enhance the well-being of individuals struggling with various challenges.

Since its inception, National Therapy Animal Day has been instrumental in raising awareness about the comforting roles that therapy animals play in numerous settings. From hospitals to schools and community centers, these animal companions provide emotional support, reduce anxiety, and promote healing among those in need. While most therapy animals are dogs, the program also embraces a diverse range of species, including cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even mini pigs and llamas.

The Impact of Therapy Animals

Pet Partners has seen significant growth, with thousands of registered animal therapy teams actively engaging in their communities across the United States and beyond. These therapy teams operate in various environments, ranging from healthcare facilities and senior living centers to courtrooms and crisis response situations. Each visit by these devoted animals brings moments of joy and relief to those who need it most.

Remarks from Pet Partners Leadership

C. Annie Peters, President and CEO of Pet Partners, emphasizes the essential role of therapy animals and their handlers in their mission: "Pet Partners volunteers and their pets are the heart of our organization and the source of our impact. Guided by connection, compassion, and a commitment to sharing the human-animal bond, our volunteers provide access to meaningful time with a therapy animal for those in need of joy and comfort."

Ways to Get Involved This National Therapy Animal Day

This year, Pet Partners invites everyone to participate in various activities to celebrate the unique contributions of therapy animals:
1. Wear a National Therapy Animal Day T-shirt: Show your support by wearing specially designed shirts available on our Bonfire shop.
2. Social Media Celebration: Share stories and photos of therapy animals on social media using the hashtags #NationalTherapyAnimalDay and #PetPartners.
3. Donation Drive: Contribute to the campaign beginning on April 9, where every donation will be matched up to $20,000 thanks to our board of directors.
4. Show Appreciation: Highlight a Pet Partners volunteer by posting on social media or through email expressions of gratitude.
5. Official Proclamation Request: Utilize our simple tool to request an official proclamation for your local community to commemorate the day.

For further details about National Therapy Animal Day and to learn more about the work of Pet Partners, visit petpartners.org/ntad.

Conclusion

As we approach April 30, take a moment to consider the profound impact that therapy animals have on the lives of individuals who face various obstacles. Their presence can be a source of healing and comfort, reminding us all of the special bond shared between humans and animals. Let’s honor these wonderful beings together on this special day.