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Josh and Friends
The GVMA Foundation has chosen the Josh and Friends program to serve as the  flagship program of its human-animal bond outreach. No one, least of all a seriously ill child, should face a hospital stay alone.
The Josh puppies are designed to be hugged tight and kept with the child throughout the hospital stay. Frightened and ill children will learn how animals can be a positive part of their lives, parents will be relieved that their child has a friend with them in the hospital when the parent can’t be there, and the veterinary profession will provide the means for this.
“The Josh Program illustrates the importance and strength of the human-animal bond that veterinarians see every day, so it simply makes sense for veterinarians to be the lead supporters,” said Dr. Michael Younker, former chair of the GVMA Foundation.
Georgia veterinarians have donated hundreds of Josh kits (plush Josh puppy, carrying case, and "I’ll Be Okay" book) but so many more children are without this comfort.
One person, with minimal effort, can make a huge difference. Simply putting a poster and a Josh kit in your reception area will generate donations from your clients as well as promoting a positive image for you. When you and your staff place a Josh puppy in the hands of a waiting child and see the relieved smile on their parent’s face, you will understand why we call it a win-win-win situation. We hope you will choose to get involved. It may be the best thing you do today.
More Information on Josh and Friends
Ways to Get Your Clinic Involved (includes samples)
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