New Pet Therapy Cat is Purrfect for Patients

Pals BearBear and Olivia

He settles comfortably into her lap and arms and purrs. BearBear, the charming, 6-year-old black tabby, has made an instant love connection with one of our patients, Sonia Zeluff, in her room at St. Mark Village. She snuggles with him and tells him, “You’re so beautiful, baby. You’re perfect.”  

BearBear’s the new and sole trained cat in our pet therapy program serving with his owner, teen volunteer Olivia Watson. There are 49 trained dog volunteers. The cat and his two sisters were rescued as newborn kittens by Olivia’s family. She marvels at the pure joy he brings to the patients they visit.

BearBear gives some love to Betty

“We knew BearBear had a talent. It’s rewarding to see the patients’ faces light up when we come to visit,” Olivia says.

Later the pair stops by the room of patient Betty Schefter, who gladly welcomes the cat on her lap. “He’s a sweetheart. I think what you’re doing is wonderful because most of us who’ve had pets all of our lives are thoroughly loving this,” Betty says.

Want to brighten the days of patients and families with your animals? Call us at 467-7423 for information on our pet therapy program.