Causes: Animal-Related, Animals, Centers to Support the Independence of Specific Populations, Health, Health Care, Human Services

Mission: The mission of paws houston is to help sustain relationships between pet owners and their pets through a period of the owner's terminal and/or chronic illness in the hospital, hospice and at home.

Programs: Facilitated 325 personal pet visits to critically ill patients at major medical facilities in the houston medical center - methodist hospital, m. D. Anderson, houston hospice, texas medical center, memorial hermann hospital and christus st. Joseph. Over 85% of the visits are to critical care areas - cvicu, cu, micu, surgical icu, and nicu to elicit a response from comotose patients, reduce depression, or provide closure between the owner and pet at the end of the owner's life. Answered 3,005 hospital related phone calls.

presentation to 7,956 medical personnel on benefits of pets to critically ill patients. These presentations were at major hospitals, hospices, medical seminars and assisted living centers throughout houston. These included accredited seminars at no cost for medical staff. Participated in community service programs at high schools, colleges and the general public. Provided copies of human animal bond and safe pet guidelines to educate clients and healthcare professional about safe handling techniques and risks associated with pets of people with critical illnesses. Provided information at dog shows, home shows, and other venues and on webpage.

direct services provided to 412 clients including pet food, trips to veterinarians and/or groomers; walking and feeding pets when owners could not; subsidized vet, groomer fees, wellness visits, immunizations and pet medications, and transportation to spay and neuter services. Answered 464 client and non-client referal calls.