Pet owners agree with and research supports the concept that pets are a very important part of life. We have all heard stories that illustrate the strong bond between people and animals. PAWS’s mission is to maintain that bond during chronic and/or terminal illness. Several of Houston’s hospitals agree and have established guidelines to assist PAWS in its efforts to reunite owners and their pets in the hospital setting.
I recently met Houston PAWS founder, Donna Dishman, and her beautiful dog Katie at the 2006 Stroke Conference. Donna and Katie keep busy getting out the message about the benefits of the bond between owners and their pets.
PAWS volunteers also assist with pet home care or foster care for people who are hospitalized for extended periods of time and need someone to look after their pets. They will also assist with dog walking and trips to the vet so that homebound individuals can keep their pets. Volunteers will also clean the litter box for those whose health issues make that chore risky. If PAWS becomes aware of someone using their money for pet food instead of medications, they try to provide assistance.
The first step to receiving services is to register with PAWS. Volunteers are always needed, as are pet supplies. For more information contact PAWS at 713-305-4487 or www.pawshouston.org