A volunteer-run charity is bringing comfort and connection to people across Greater Napanee through the simple act of petting a dog or cat.
Therapeutic Paws of Canada, founded in 2002, has hundreds of teams nationwide that visit seniors’ homes, hospitals, schools and more.
Carol Frizzell, special visit coordinator and Napanee team leader, says the organization relies entirely on volunteers and their certified pets to deliver emotional support in a wide range of settings.
Visits typically last about an hour and can include time in common areas or one-on-one interactions. The program also runs shorter reading sessions where children read aloud to pets in a calm, non-judgmental environment.
Frizzell said the impact on people can be immediate and powerful.
The visits extend beyond long-term care homes. Teams also support first responders, students during exam periods and even victims or witnesses in approved courtrooms.
The program also benefits volunteers, who often describe the experience as deeply rewarding.
Therapeutic Paws of Canada is currently recruiting new volunteers, especially as demand grows in long-term care homes. Organizers are looking for calm pets and owners who can commit about an hour each week.
More information is available on the organization’s website.
Written by Emily Chhatwood
