VITAS Healthcare is currently looking for a Paw Pal Volunteer to visit patients on hospice residing at Gardenview Dougherty Ferry. Gardenview Dougherty Ferry is located at 13612 Big Bend Rd., Valley Park, MO 63088. By visiting with your dog as a VITAS Paw Pal Volunteer, you can offer comfort, bring back memories, encourage activity and provide unconditional love to VITAS patients. Your visits leave behind memories of you and your pet, and rekindle thoughts of other pets. All kinds of pets are invited to join VITAS’ Paw Pals Program (dogs are especially welcome).

Volunteers are matched with a VITAS patient to provide specific, non- medical care through socialization and friendly visits. Every VITAS volunteer receives training in hospice philosophy, how to support patients/families, health/safety precautions and more. Comprehensive training and orientation for hospice volunteering is provided. Days and times for volunteering are flexible according to your availability.

Paw Pal Dogs must be well-groomed, well- behaved, at least one- year old, and have up-to-date health/vaccine records. For more information on this exciting opportunity, please contact Emily Jokerst at (314) 682-3434 or at Emily.Jokerst@VITAS.com.