Pet-Assisted Therapy

San Diego Humane Society has been bringing the joy of animals to people for more than thirty years through its Pet-Assisted Therapy (P-AT) Program!
The Pet-Assisted Therapy program is designed to share animals with people of all ages in care facilities, including convalescent homes, hospitals, mental health centers, juvenile detention centers, corporate offices and children's programs. Volunteers bring rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, and dogs to visit people who aren’t able to experience the joys of pet ownership. Our program proudly serves over 20,000 clients each year. We are now offering virtual and socially distant options. If you are interested in a program, please contact us!
AniPals
Do you know an animal lover who would benefit from receiving a handwritten letter?
Request an AniPal:
- Fill out the survey with the name and address of the recipient, including as much or as little personal information as you choose. For care facilities, you can request letters for your group or anonymous individuals to protect confidentiality.
- The recipient(s) will be matched with one of our volunteers who will write a letter introducing a special animal. Each letter will include a picture of the animal and a positive message.
Request an AniPal
This free service is available to anyone experiencing social isolation during this difficult time.
If you would like to donate to support this program, please click here and direct your gift to Pet-Assisted Therapy.
Critter Crashers
A fur-fix virtually delivered right to you!
Can’t get enough of adorable animals?
Pet-Assisted Therapy Experience
Our Pet-Assisted Therapy (P-AT) program typically visits hundreds of clients in care facilities each month. While we are not able to provide animals to pet at this time, we are happy to set up a virtual visit or a socially distant window or outdoor visit with dogs and/or small pets. Email your name, facility information and preferred timing to Community Engagement for more information and to book your Pet-Assisted Therapy experience.