VA and Pet Partners renew partnership to support Veterans

In April 2023, VA and Pet Partners announced the renewal of their memorandum of agreement, reaffirming their commitment to enhance the quality of life for Veterans. Facilitated by VA’s National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships (HAP), the renewed partnership builds upon the strong collaboration established in 2019 and signifies a continued effort to deliver impactful support to Veterans.

Since 1977, Pet Partners has been a leader in promoting the health and wellness benefits of animal-assisted activities and therapies. The partnership focuses on the positive effects of the human-animal bond (HAB), a mutually beneficial relationship that enhances the well-being of both humans and animals.

By incorporating animal-assisted intervention (AAI) including animal-assisted therapy (AAT), animal-assisted education and animal-assisted activities at VA facilities, Veterans receive additional support for their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Pet Partners’ well-trained animals coupled with the compassion and expertise of dedicated volunteer handlers create an environment where Veterans can experience the transformative power of the HAB.

Research suggests that HAB and AAI may significantly help reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, increase feelings of safety and trust, and alleviate feelings of loneliness among Veterans. Additionally, AAT is an effective complementary treatment for a variety of mental and behavioral health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

Therapy dog an incentive to his recovery

One example of the positive impact of AAT occurred at Minneapolis VA. A Veteran who was initially reluctant and in distress became motivated to learn how to use his motorized wheelchair to reach therapy animal Wilson at the end of a hallway. Wilson’s presence served as an incentive to help the Veteran successfully navigate his wheelchair, a significant turning point in his recovery journey.

“Scientific studies show the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions can positively impact a Veteran’s well-being,” said Mary Margaret Callahan, Pet Partners’ chief mission officer. “We are excited to expand our programs and provide more information about the benefits of animal-assisted interventions.”

Pet Partners and VA are dedicated to leveraging the HAB to provide additional support to Veterans to enhance their overall health and well-being. The partnership’s objectives include expanding pet visitation and therapy programs for Veterans at VA facilities, educating Veterans and VA staff about the benefits of AAI, and supporting efforts to increase health literacy for Veterans and their families. Additionally, the partnership aims to facilitate Veteran volunteerism in rural communities and increase Veteran involvement in Pet Partners’ events and activities.

“Animals have a special impact in many of our lives.”

“The goals of the partnership align with VA’s strategic objective to collaborate with partners and fiercely advocate for Veterans to improve their outcomes, equity and quality of life,” said Dr. Jamie Davis, HAP health system specialist. “The joint effort allows us to harness the positive health benefits associated with animals and extend the power of the human-animal bond to Veterans across the nation.”

Chien Chen, HAP chief officer, echoed HAP’s commitment to supporting innovative partnerships and health care advancement initiatives that directly benefit the nation’s Veterans. “HAP is thrilled to continue championing innovative partnerships and health care advancement initiatives that advance the health and well-being of our nation’s Veterans. Animals have a special impact in many of our lives, and through robust partnerships, HAP is unwavering in its dedication to sharing unique practices that effectively support the needs of Veterans.”

More information about Pet Partners

More information about HAP