Animals can be bewitchingly therapeutic for people of any age who are seriously ill and even dying. Physically and emotionally, they can offer companionship and a layer of comfort. Interactions with animals have been shown to relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety and loneliness. Connecting with an animal can provide a distraction from pain or other symptoms and can help to trigger meaningful memories. Some studies have revealed that stroking an animal releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with love and positive emotional states. The touch of an animal can lower blood pressure, heart and respiration rates. From early to late stages of dementia, individuals often respond to the sight and touch of an animal.

Even Florence Nightingale noted that a small pet can be an "excellent companion for the sick". I love the quote by A.D. Williams. "When I look into the eyes of an animal.....I see a living being, I see a friend, I feel a soul.” We tend to think of dogs and cats, but horses, rabbits, llamas, birds and pot bellied pigs, are additional animals that people may find comforting.

Due to the imposed isolation of COVID-19, there has been a demand for robotic pets, especially for older adults. These cats and dogs are furry to touch, interactive, purr or bark and have heartbeats. Along with medications, there should be prescriptions written for these! Better appreciation of all these benefits, has led to more animal assisted activities in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospices.

As an End of Life Doula, I appreciate the bond between people and their pets and animals. Depending on the situation, I would try to help maintain pets in the home, find available resources for pet therapy or suggest robotic companion pets....all for the joy, the smiles and the magic they can bring.