Robotic therapy pets find their forever home at Veterans Hospital in Madison

By Laura McGuire, American Red Cross

Members of the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross Southwest Wisconsin Chapter, John Heisler, Sara Horein and Elizabeth Kirchstein made a special delivery to the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison WI. During Red Cross Month, six companion robotic therapy dogs and cats, found their forever home.

Four dogs and two cats arrived ready to react to human touch and voice, similar to a real pet. Their main intent will be to improve residents’ wellbeing through lowering anxiety and raising companionship. The use of robotic pets has shown to be highly effective in lessening loneliness, improving communications, and facilitating social interactions.

According to multiple studies, these interactive robopets are proven to provide joy and comfort to those with dementia and memory issues who experience agitation. The robopets can help residents calm down, feel less agitated and provide the pet owner with a sense of responsibility, care and structure. The robopets can be petted, combed and even washed. There is no need to feed, walk or clean up after them.

The Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces in Wisconsin is excited to provide the robopets to the Veterans hospital when so many residents are experiencing increased isolation due to medical conditions.

Elizabeth Kirchstein, Kyle Kriegl, Jim Barrett, Matthew Jones, Saran Horein and John Heisler.

Jeff Kazel, Interim Director for Service to the Armed Forces in Wisconsin couldn’t have imagined a time where furry robotic animals would provide comfort and healing for Veterans. “The animals are a wonderful addition to the facility,” said Kazel. “We are hoping Veterans create a meaningful connection with their companions and are taken back to a happy, comforting time. We anticipate the robopets will become part of the resident’s life, given names and be treated like any living pet.”

The Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces is dedicated supporting to our valued veteran community in all phases of their life. If you are  interested in helping our veteran community, please reach out to RedCross.org for volunteer opportunities in your area.