It’s no surprise that owning a pet has a therapeutic aspect. After all, these are animals who always love us no matter what the situation. They greet us when we come home with no judgments or expectations (except, of course, a full food dish!)

But when you’re seeking care in a hospice care center, the question arises: Do hospice care centers allow pets visitation? 

“It has been proven that pets increase comfort and reduce anxiety & depression. By allowing pets at Kitty Askins Hospice Center and Crystal Coast Hospice House, we know that our patients benefit greatly from their presence, along with their family. Visits from pets even brighten the day of our staff. Allowing pets to visit adds to the home-like atmosphere of our hospice facilities,” said 3HC Director of Philanthropy, April Brantham.

We know that pets are members of the family, too! Therefore, we’ll review our 3HC policies for pet visitation and let you know how you can arrange a visit from your furry friend. 

Do Hospice Care Centers Allow Pets Visitation?

You’ve just been admitted to one of our hospice care centers, we want you to know that we recognize that treating you like family means including all of your family. Including your “fur babies.” We do have a few requirements:

• All pets must have received the appropriate vaccinations and must be up-to-date on all their immunizations. A copy of their vaccination and immunization records is required. 
• Animals should not have a history of aggression, such as biting or scratching.
• Dogs must be on a leash.
• All animal visits must be approved by your health care team.
• Be sure to let us know when you’re planning to visit with your pet.

Do Hospice Care Centers Allow Visitation? The Soothing Presence of Pets

One of the reasons we allow visitation from the four-legged members of your family is that we understand the healing impact of pets. In fact, according to the Journal of Clinical Nursing:

Although there is a need for more extensive research, studies show that animals provide extensive benefits to those who receive hospice or palliative care.

What Are the Hospice Care Centers? And Do Hospice Care Centers Allow Pets Visitation? 

You may have additional questions about our (add the word “hospice” here) hospice care centers and do hospice care centers allow pets visitation. We’d like to introduce you to these wonderful facilities that provide the care, peace and compassion you need. It’s just one more way that we treat you like family.

It’s important to note that these centers are not hospitals. These are peaceful, restful places that allow you to be free from pain while being supported clinically by our comprehensive staff. We encourage visits from family and friends.

These two centers are the Kitty Askins Hospice Center in Goldsboro and the SECU Crystal Coast Hospice House in Newport, North Carolina.

Want Your Furry Friend to Visit? Just Talk to Us!

We welcome the opportunity to meet this important member of your family. After all, many of us are animal lovers, too! But we do need to coordinate the visit with our health care team. We want to be sure you get the most out of your visit and that you are able to spend the most time possible with your pet. 

3HC Hospice: Treating You Like Family

As a non-profit hospice, we’re dedicated to providing care to everyone who needs it, regardless of their ability to pay. Why? Because we put people ahead of profits. That’s why we compassionately care for your entire family through bereavement support, and programs that make wishes come true.

Our team of doctors, nurses, social workers and chaplains are prepared to meet your needs, regardless of where you are on your journey. 

Anyone can refer someone to hospice: family members, physicians, or even the patients themselves!

For more information reach out to our easy central referral line for our offices, which are located from the Triangle area to the NC Coast: 1.800.692.HHHC(4442)

“It has been proven that pets increase comfort and reduce anxiety & depression. By allowing pets at Kitty Askins Hospice Center and Crystal Coast Hospice House, we know that our patients benefit greatly from their presence, along with their family. Visits from pets even brighten the day of our staff. Allowing pets to visit adds to the home-like atmosphere of our hospice facilities.” 3HC Director of Philanthropy, April Brantham