Friday 12th June 2020
They say the best therapists have fur and four legs and we
couldn’t agree more! We wanted to tell you a little about our favourite charity
Pets As Therapy, how they are facing the challenges of these uncertain times
and, most importantly, how you can help.
In normal times, thousands of people benefit every week from
visits from PAT Volunteers and their animals providing companionship and
interaction often at a time of isolation or challenge. PAT Visits can get
children, the sick and the elderly talking when they are struggling to
communicate. They can improve self-confidence, social interaction, and overall
wellbeing. The positive effects of a PAT visit are not only experienced by the
people being visited but also on family, friends, and the wider community.
With face to face visits to individuals, schools and care homes
suspended during this time, the charity have embraced technology and social
media to continue with their work and fundraising efforts and to keep in touch
so that PAT teams will be able to continue their amazing visits in the future.
Here are some things to look out for and what you can take
part in!
Follow the PAT Pets
PAT dogs and cats have not been resting on their laurels at
home! You can follow their antics online and sponsor them in various challenges
such as recent the Toilet Roll Challenge and the 2.6 challenge, to help raise
money for the charity.
You
can also check out the hilarious #PATDogDiaries click here to watch the videos!
Take part in the #PATPubquiz
On
Facebook and Instagram every Wednesday at 7.30pm! There are prizes to be won, from Arden
Grange, Orvis and more.
#PATChat Live with Matt
National Volunteer and Events Manager, Matt Robinson is live
at 7.30pm on Mondays keeping you all updated and informed, sometimes with
special guests including charity ambassador and Mental Health campaigner James
Middleton. Watch on PAT Facebook or Instagram.
JustGiving
If you have the ability to give during this time, visit the
PAT JustGiving page to make a donation. You can make one
off donation, regular giving or set up your own fundraising page!
If you can't, just enjoy all of the above and feel free to share with your friends and family to help spread the word and raise awareness of this fabulous charity.
Pets
As Therapy are a registered Charity No. 1112194. For more information, visit
their website.
Photo Credit: Norman: normancavapoo by Sarah Sparkes
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