Research shows the benefits of the human-animal bond are far-reaching—especially for individuals who undergo a traumatic experience such as cancer.
So, the Cancer Center has partnered with Companion Animal Alliance (CAA) to create Fostering Hope, a program that allows cancer survivors to temporarily house a shelter animal in need of a foster home.
Fostering Hope is an extension of the Cancer Center’s successful pet therapy program. Through the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s Tiger H.A.T.S. (Human Animal Therapy Services) program, certified pet therapy dogs visit Cancer Center patients to provide comfort and stress relief during treatment.
Fostering Hope takes that concept a step further. The program provides in-home animal interaction for the survivor and a safe, loving environment for a homeless pet.
“Survivors are often caught off guard by the lingering health challenges and the emotional toll following cancer, and the impact can be severe for family members as well,” explains Cancer Center Director of Survivorship Francinne Lawrence.
“Research shows that stress and anxiety can be reduced by at least 25% through interaction with animals,” she continues. “We’ve seen through pet therapy; it’s more than just a fun experience for the patient and family, the effects are real and lasting. And in the home environment, everyone can benefit.”
For the survivors, Fostering Hope offer the opportunity for socialization, comfort companionship, increased physical activity, improved mood as well as emotional and physical healing. For homeless pets, the program offers an enriched life away from the shelter environment.
“Fostering is a win-win for both the animal and the cancer survivor,” says CAA Foster and Rescue Coordinator Lily Yap. “When brought into a home, shelter animals receive love and training that helps them find their forever families faster. It also benefits the survivor because they can enjoy the health perks of a companion pet relationship without a long-term commitment.”
Potential participants must receive physician approval, and animals must have full health clearance by veterinarians and CAA placement staff. Upon approval, CAA’s fostering coordinator and a Cancer Center oncology nurse provide the survivor and family with a customized orientation.
There is no cost to survivors. Donations from a private foundation and an Episcopal School service project cover related pet expenses.
CAA has a variety of pets available for both fostering and adoption including:
Peanut (#64044/foster care) is a male Chihuahua mix puppy.
Zoe (#52871) is a beautiful adult Bombay mix.
Lucky (#62052) is a 7-year-old Anatolian shepherd/lab mix. This big, laid-back guy has beautiful, soulful eyes and a goofy smile that is sure to win your heart. Lucky loves to chew on toys, go on walks and lie on the couch using the closest human lap as a pillow. This guy is already house-trained and working on his leash training. His is also honing his natural singing talent whenever sirens or trains go by!
Matthew (#61812) is a majestic brown and white tabby.
Bobby (#62937) is a 5-year-old Great Dane/lab mix. Excitable when first off the leash, this gentle giant quickly calms down. Bobby is a sweet boy with soulful eyes who loves to give hugs. Looking for a buddy to hang out on the couch with you or nap with your kids? Bobby is your guy.
Stacy (#59237) is a shorthaired calico.
All these pets have been spayed/neutered and vaccinated and litterbox-trained. Many other adoptable dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are available from Companion Animal Alliance.
