Hospice takes care of those in their last stage of life. What if that stage can be enhanced with a little puppy love?

Gentle Paws with a Cause is a new animal assisted therapy program in Grand Island. At just two months old, it's the first program of its kind in central Nebraska.  Volunteers bring man's best friend to those in need of companionship and a smile. 

Meet Layla. She eats a bacon egg sandwich everyday and also tried her appetite on
my camera. But she's currently in training to show her softer side...to hospice patients.

"I've always had a love of animals and a love of seniors, and I thought this was a great way
to put these two loves of mine together," Cindy Paustian said, founder of Gentle Paws with a Cause.

"I feel like the joy we share when we bring them in is worth it," adds Brent Kraus. He's Layla's owner and as an Asera Care Hospice coordinator, he knows first-hand what lights up the faces of the terminally ill. 

"Seeing someone with Alzheimers, they don't forget the love of a dog or the touch of a dog or
a cat. When they feel that, it just makes them smile," he said.

Recent research from Texas A&M agrees. A June 2009 report states animal assisted therapy can help patients recall memory and extend their attention span, plus, decrease anxiety
and blood pressure levels.

"Hospice isn't just about the clinical piece, it's also about the pyschological/social role
that we play," Paustian said.

Fifty-five hospice patients have already snuggled with a furry friend--cats included--thanks to 24 volunteers. Reaction from patients?

"Wonderful, wonderful."

If you're interested, Fido must take a training session with the Grand Island Kennel Club, you, a training session to be a hospice volunteer. Kraus said it adds up to precious, final memories for even the sickest of patients.

"Animals don't care. Regardless of your situation or if you are handicapped--they're not judgemental--they love you for who you are," Kraus said.

Reporter's Notes: Stacia Kalinoski:

Hospice patients get a visit two to four times a month. Paustian said she would love to expand this program to other communities. If you're interested or know someone in hospice who could benefit, contact Aseracare Hospice in Grand Island at 308-384-1080. It's located at 1203 Allen Drive, next to Gordman's.