Post by Vanderbilt University Medical Center

For 25 years, pet therapy teams have brought comfort and compassion to the patients, families and staff at Clarksville's hospital. To mark the milestone, Tender Paws President David Bilan and members of Tender Paws of Clarksville recently gathered with Vanderbilt Clarksville Hospital President Randy Davis and Volunteer Coordinator Shelby Banks to celebrate the long-standing pet therapy partnership. Tender Paws was founded by the first hospital pet therapy volunteers to provide training and support to those who want to share their pets with the hospital population. Over the past quarter century, more than 30 pet therapy teams have volunteered at the hospital, enhancing the patient and family experience. Their visits have become a favorite of patients and families, and they have helped reduce stress and bring smiles to VCH team members. "This partnership represents the very best of what community and compassionate care look like," said Shelby Banks. "For 25 years, our volunteers and their dogs have made a difference in the lives of patients, families and staff, and we are honored to continue to grow this partnership.” Read more about the partnership here: https://lnkd.in/gZ3VSPuU