A Canadian Hospital Lets Patients Meet Their Pets To Get Well Sooner, And It’s The Sweetest Thing To See

Jun 19, 2019 by apost team

Extended hospitalization is difficult for even the strongest people, and pet owners have it especially rough when they are not able to get needed TLC from their furry family members. Cuddles and licks from pets elevate mood, and when that affection is missing during hospitalization, patients fully feel the absence of their companion.

Thanks to the efforts of the late Zachary Noble, some pet owners’ hospital stays are a lot less sad. His legacy truly tugs at the heartstrings.

Noble faced a Hodgkin Lymphoma diagnosis that was, unfortunately, an aggressive form that proved to be resistant to chemotherapy. While hospitalized, the range of emotions he felt were powerful, and missing his two dogs was a daily woe of many while he occupied his hospital bed. He longed to see his beloved canines, and his medical team made it happen.

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Two visits from his pooches lifted his spirits tremendously, causing him to feel physically better after quality time with them. His aunt Donna Jenkins said, “We watched the change in his stress level, his desire to get well enough to go home, and his overall happiness.”

He felt so passionate about the emotionally healing power of the pup that, prior to his passing, he blueprinted a plan to allow others to enjoy companion pet visits in the hospital where he was treated. Donna was committed to the project as well.

Today, Zachary's Paws for Healing program is a reality, though much legwork was required to see it come to fruition. Donna worked alongside Juravinski Hospital’s medical and infection control staff. Protecting patients from possible infections or bacteria from animals was vital. Stringent procedures and policies were enacted.

Shielding animals from any stress they might encounter in a hospital environment was a key consideration as well. If any risks are present, pets will not be taken to see their owners. Thorough evaluations from the team at Zachary’s Paws for Healing take place to ensure a wholly positive outcome.

Thanks to Donna and her beloved nephew, numerous patients have been afforded the opportunity to have their pet pay them a visit. Sadly, some of these heartwarming reunions are actually final farewells. This fact is what makes this effort so significant.

Zachary’s final contribution to the world continues to impact others in a phenomenal way. Inspire those in your inner circle with this story of unselfish compassion in honor of Zachary and his admirable quest during his final days.