PAWS for People is a non-profit pet therapy organization that recruits, trains, certifies, and places therapy teams in over 110 sites in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The real heart of our organization, however, is the close to 250 therapy teams who share the love and companionship of their pets, providing a deep and healing connection for those in need. Programs. From hospitals and skilled care facilities to chemical dependency centers and elementary schools, thousands of people are experiencing the benefits of one-on-one therapeutic visits thanks to hundreds of dedicated volunteers and their loving therapy companions every year. Volunteers: Our teams consist of one volunteer and one pet (usually dogs, but sometimes cats or bunnies) who, after undergoing rigorous training and testing, commit to making therapeutic visits at least twice a month at a partnering site. PAWS boasts one of the strongest volunteer forces in our area. We have 400 volunteers who donated more than 24,000 hours of service in 2010! Benefits of Pet Therapy It's well-known (and scientifically proven) that interaction with a gentle, friendly pet has significant benefits. Physical Health: -lowers blood pressure -improves cardiovascular health -releases endorphins (oxytocin) that have a calming effect -diminishes overall physical pain -the act of petting produces an automatic relaxation response, reducing the amount of medication some folks need Mental Health: -lifts spirits and lessens depression -decreases feelings of isolation and alienation -encourages communcation -provides comfort -increases socialization -reduces boredom -lowers anxiety -helps children overcome speech and emotional disorders -creates motivation for the client to recover faster -reduces lonliness Reading: (PAWS for Reading) -helps children focus better -improves literacy skills -provides non-stressful, non-judgmental environment -increases self-confidence, reduces self-consciousness In Physical Therapy -increases joint movement and improves recovery time -maintains or increases motor skills -provides motivation to move more, stretch farther, exercise longer If you would like us to send you our 5 page annotated version of this list, please contact us at [email protected]. In NJ contact: Sharon Bednar-NJ Coordinator [email protected] 856-261-7447