Pets
as Therapy (PAT) is an organisation providing therapeutic benefits to people
in hospitals, hospices, care homes and special needs schools. PAT dogs and
cats visit people that often feel isolated and give them the chance to cuddle
and talk to the animal. The North of England branch, which is run from Stanley,
has over 1,400 volunteers throughout the region.
County Durham Foundation has so far donated over £2,800 towards new
volunteer registration and training. The money has helped PAT become a huge
success and help over 5,000 people in the North of England. Even the most
reserved people seem to open up and let the barriers down while the PAT
animals are around, helping them enjoy themselves even in the most difficult
circumstances. They can even assist the medical profession to treat dog
or cat phobia.
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