Project Pup is calling on all people with friendly pups or even cats to help bring a few moments of joy to ailing veterans, seniors, and others. Despite the program’s popularity, it is struggling financially and having difficulty finding enough volunteers. The program lost about 50% of its volunteer force following the outbreak of COVID-19. The nonprofit needs some 200 volunteers to fill its current needs.
What is Project PUP?
Project PUP, which stands for Pets Uplifting People, has had volunteers visiting healthcare facilities since 1984. These volunteers bring joy and comfort to everyone they meet. The group, which typically works with 400 volunteers, covers the entire Tampa Bay area, including Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties.
Pets who may be eligible to join the fun are screened for temperament and behavior before visiting nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospitals, airports, or rehabilitation centers.
The pets involved in the program love the attention and those they are visiting find joy in the companionship they receive from the animals. Pet therapy has been shown to boost spirits and uplift recipients and volunteers, alike.
One recent story from Project PUP involves a dog named Denali, who was burned by her previous owner and received burns over 35% of her body. She is now PUP’s poster dog for those who have suffered domestic violence, including adult and children.
Pets helping people
According to the Mayo Clinic, animal-assisted therapy can significantly reduce fatigue, anxiety, depression and pain for people with a range of health issues, including:
- Cancer treatment recipients
- Children undergoing dental treatment
- People suffering from dementia
- People in long-term care facilities
- Veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- People with anxiety
Those who sit in during animal-assisted therapy, including family and friends, also benefit.
Pet therapy is also being used in nonmedical settings, such as universities and community programs, to help people deal with anxiety and stress.
The Mayo Clinic has more than a dozen registered therapy dogs and handlers participating in its Mayo Clinic’s Caring Canines program. The dogs and their handlers visit various hospitals, making for a welcome distraction and helping to reduce anxiety and stress.
Project PUP has the same goal–to bring joy and distraction to those struggling with physical or mental health issues.
How to join?
If you’re thinking of joining the pack may have some questions there are a couple things you must do. There is no real training, but there is a screening process.
To become a member of Project PUP, participants must complete the following steps:
- Register for and attend a Project Pup Information Session. Information sessions occur at Moffitt Cancer Center and in Largo. Information sessions are for humans only.
- Complete the required paperwork.
- Register for and successfully complete a screening with your PUP.
For more information or to ask questions, call 727- 755-6167.
