Hartford Hospital Pet Therapy Program
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Hartford Hospital Celebrates 30 Years of Pet Therapy and a generous grant for the future from the Robert R. Rosenheim Foundation
30 years ago oncologist Dr. Robert Martin inspired the beginning of the Hartford Hospital Pet Therapy program. He and his dog Abby demonstrated the positive impact of pet therapy through their interactions with patients, visitors and staff. Thirty years, and thousands of visits later, pet therapy is still touching the lives of many at Hartford Hospital. Recognizing the power of these interactions, the Robert R. Rosenheim Foundation has made an investment of $660,000 to the Pet Therapy program. This donation will allow us to expand our teams throughout the hospital and provide even greater support to the students at the Grace S. Webb School at the Institute of Living.
We are grateful to the Robert R. Rosenheim Foundation, Cheryl Ficara, RN, MS, NEA-BC, President of Hartford Hospital and the Hartford Region, and Lynn Rossini, Vice President of Philanthropy at Hartford Hospital & Charlotte Hungerford Hospital for their commitment to enhancing the healthcare experience for all through pet therapy. Most importantly we are grateful to our pet therapy volunteers who share their time, compassion, and incredible dogs with our patients, families, and staff. Your visits brighten days, ease anxiety, and bring comfort and healing to everyone you meet.
Where Our Teams Volunteer
Pet Therapy teams visit a variety of settings based on their comfort level, interests, and availability:
- Cancer Centers in Avon, Hartford, and Manchester
- Welcome Wagger — greeting visitors in the main hospital lobby
- Inpatient visits at Hartford Hospital and the Institute of Living, including geriatric, adult, adolescent, and children’s units
- The Grace S. Webb School in Avon and Hartford — Visit The Webb School Programs ›