The significance of pet therapy cannot be overstated, particularly in a world saturated with digital media where animals often serve as beloved icons of comfort and companionship. From Doug the Pug to Scooby-Doo, animals hold a special place in our hearts, offering solace and joy regardless of age. With pets gracing 70% of American households, it's evident that their presence brings immense comfort to many. At Hospice of Southern Illinois, both our Marion and Belleville teams have access to trained pet therapy dogs dedicated to bringing comfort and companionship to our hospice patients. Through collaborative efforts involving our staff, external agencies, and volunteers, we extend the reach of pet therapy into assisted living and memory care facilities across our communities, spreading joy and comfort to individuals beyond our own patient network.