Since 1984 shelter volunteers have taken adoptable pets to centers for the elderly. Now each week ten volunteers take pets to visit residents in one adult day care center, three assisted living facilities and four nursing homes in New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange, South Daytona and Orange City.

• One adult day-care center
• Three assisted living facilities
• Four nursing homes

An animal visit can offer entertainment or a welcome distraction from pain and infirmity. People often talk to the dogs, and share their thoughts, feelings and memories with them.

Stroking a dog or cat can reduce a person’s blood pressure, and petting encourages the use of hands and arms, stretching and turning.

Love is the most important medicine, and pets are one of nature’s best sources of affection.

The pets love these outings, and they also provide our volunteers with an opportunity to see if our pets need any additional training before they are adopted.