How pet therapy brings joy to Hospice of the Valley patients

AZ Big Media
Sept. 9, 2026
by Lin Sue Flood

Wagging tails and wet kisses are bringing a unique brand of medicine to local patients and families navigating a challenging time of life.

Today, the nonprofit agency has more than 50 dedicated pet therapy teams that bring comfort and smiles to patients, caregivers and family members.

Among these beloved volunteers are Ed Gesten and his Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Huck. The Scottsdale resident adopted the sweet dog shortly after retiring, never imagining the two would embark on a new mission together. Now, the charming duo visits patients, witnessing firsthand the magical connection animals can make with everyone they meet. 

According to Ed, Huck has a soulful expression that captivated the team responsible for screening dogs for the program.

It was his eyes that sold them, Ed said, adding that it’s impossible to know how many lives Huck has touched. He has built so many great relationships and it continues. “It’s changed my life; he’s changed my life,” he said.

I had the privilege of joining Ed and Huck on a recent episode of “Arizona Horizons” on Arizona PBS. As a volunteer in Hospice of the Valleys pet therapy program, along with my standard poodle Kismet, I was thrilled to help share the profound impact these animals have on patients, families and healthcare staff. Therapy animals just naturally walk into a room excited to meet, bringing spontaneous comfort and joy, expecting nothing more than a scratch behind the ears.

Patients instantly feel better and the animals love the attention. It’s a win-win every time!

If this sounds like a rewarding opportunity for you and your furry best friend, Hospice of the Valley always welcomes more friendly, calm and confident dogs and cats (rabbits and miniature horses, too!) to join the Pet Connections family. To learn more about the simple pet therapy certification process, visit hov.org/volunteer/pet-therapy.

To see adorable Huck in action, catch the full PBS segment at azpbs.org (search for “Hospice of the Valley provides pet therapy”).