Media contact: Lily McCormick
Regional Communications Manager
Lily.mccormick@redcross.org | 385-584-7610
SALT LAKE CITY (March 31, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah has partnered with Utah Pet Partners to bring therapy dogs to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs campus to help improve quality of life, social engagement and health of Veterans, active-duty military members and their families.
Utah Pet Partners, a nonprofit organization committed to improving health and mental health through partnerships with therapy animals, is collaborating with the Red Cross’s Services to the Armed Forces to bring these benefits to veterans. Utah Pet Partners upholds the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and ethical care in animal-assisted interventions. Therapy animals are proven to positively impact emotional, physical, and social well-being, transforming lives in various settings such as hospitals, mental health facilities, schools, and now VA events.
“The impact of therapy dogs on veterans cannot be overstated,” said Heidi Ruster, CEO of the Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “This partnership allows us to offer a unique service that provides comfort, hope, and a sense of connection to those who have served our country.”
The Power of Therapy Dogs in Transforming Lives
A wide range of research and studies suggest the human-animal bond can lead to lower blood pressure, reduced risk for cardiovascular disease, lessened anxiety, pain and loneliness. Time with therapy animals not only promotes physical and mental health but also supports wellness across variables such as social interaction, rate of recovery and personal motivation.
Since launching this initiative in March 2025, Utah Pet Partners has worked alongside the Red Cross to bring four therapy dogs to two VA events, positively engaging with more than 300 veterans.
A History of Red Cross Support for Veterans
The Red Cross of Utah has a longstanding relationship with the VA, consistently delivering support through services like clothing donations and partnerships with programs such as the Salt Lake City VA Substance Abuse Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Program (SARRTP).
Beyond therapy dog visits, the American Red Cross supports service members, veterans, and their families nationwide through a diverse range of programs. With the help of 14,000 volunteers, the organization delivers over 471,000 services each year. Among these programs are the Hero Care Network, which keeps families connected during emergencies; resiliency workshops that help veterans and their families cope with stress; and peer support groups for caregivers of injured service members.
Volunteers are integral to the success of these programs, with many retired military personnel continuing their legacy of service through the Red Cross. To learn more about the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces mission and explore volunteer opportunities, visit redcross.org/SAF.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
