PAL, Pets are Love (for sure!)

Have you noticed that when people are with pets they usually appear more relaxed and open? 

The PAL (Pets Are Love) visitation group that takes dogs and their humans to area nursing homes monthly often take home an emotional lift beyond the feeling of a “job well done.”  

It’s a warm and sharing experience to participate as nursing home residents give loving hugs, smiles, and pats to visiting dogs.  Many had to leave their pets behind and hearing their stories of happy memories as they caress the visiting animal is joyful.

Even the most difficult resident may be the first to display a warm smile for the four footed furry guest. Their stories of the personal bond with past pet(s) often reveals a young, happy and gentle person.  

Not all people love animals but those who do are quick to identify the regularly scheduled “doggy day” and save that space of time for their pet visit. Some refuse to leave for an outing until the dogs have come by. At a recent visit a gentleman shyly pulled a paper napkin from his pocket and offered part of a carefully wrapped and saved lunch hamburger to his furry “friend.”  

The PAL program began in the late 1980’s using only specially screened and selected shelter pets with volunteers.  

Today, PAL teams include volunteers whose personal pets have passed a screening test, as well as those who choose to take an SPCA dog on an outing.  

Visits are held the second and fourth Saturdays while dog temperament screening is the first and third Saturdays. For more information contact TSPCA at 918.428.7722, or email us using this convenient email form.