Baxter visits local facilities to encourage and support those who experience health problems or other challenges. He and his owner, Jennifer Peel, Ph.D., assistant professor of anesthesiology, volunteer once a month to participate in “PAWS for Service.”
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A trip to a local hospital is not uncommon for Baxter. In fact, his monthly visits are something he eagerly awaits.

This nine-year-old golden retriever belongs to Jennifer Peel, Ph.D., assistant professor of anesthesiology, and together, they are involved with an animal-assisted visitation program called “PAWS for Service.” The organization, an affiliate of the Responsible Pet Owners Alliance, is made up of visitation teams of members and their dogs who volunteer their time to encourage and support those who experience bad health or other challenges. The teams visit more than 20 San Antonio facilities.

“We try to visit a facility at least once a month,” Dr. Peel said. “I think Baxter’s visits benefit both staff and patients. Many of their patients have been separated from their pets and are so happy to spend time with Baxter, and the staff members look forward to seeing him.”

Dr. Peel says Baxter’s monthly visits to San Antonio facilities benefit him as much as the patients.

Dr. Peel said Baxter races her to the door when she asks him if he is ready to “do PAWS.”

“The University United Methodist Church is gracious enough to provide space for training and meetings,” Dr. Peel said. “It is so rewarding to hear a patient say ‘you have made my day.’ There are times that I’ve cried the whole way home because I am so thankful for my health.”

Approximately 50 teams are currently involved and Dr. Peel said anyone is welcome to join. Dogs must pass meet health requirements of participating facilities and teams must commit to a seven week training course.

If you are interested in participating, e-mail Dr. Peel: peelj@uthscsa.edu.