News & Notes
This just in...
Kim Raterman, President of PPCNY, was interviewed by Amy Robbins of WNTQ in Syracuse for an episode of Street Talk. She did a wonderful job describing who we are and the very important work that we do. The interview aired on the weekend of June 27, 2025. You can hear the full episode by clicking the play button below.
This year's Bark Sale at St. Joseph's Hospital was a great success, including many raffles and treats well organized by Rachelle Lando and Mary Hagen. It was also a special day for Gracie. St Joes was eager to welcome her back for the first time since being off on her sabbatical. And Gracie was so excited to finally be back! Therapy Pups Anna, Molly, Winston, and Samuel joined her at the Bark Sale providing lots of pets for all! The fundraiser is being extended until noon on Thursday when the raffle drawing will begin! A big thank you to Rachelle, Mary, and the rest of St.Joes for supporting us in such a big and meaningful way!
But wait, there's more!...
We were proud to be represented by Sue Gilberti in a recent interview on the local broadcast of Bridge Street. She and Maggie spoke about Pet partners and our support of a program at the Manlius Public Library. Click on the image to enjoy the interview!
Pet Partner Team Eva Shanley and Casey were highlighted in the Pet Partner's National newsletter. She reflected on how she and Casey missed their visits during the height of COVID but also how they could still have an imapct on their community. Click on the image to read the article.
The power of pet therapy can be seen inside the walls of St. Joseph’s Hospital as we help heal the hearts of healthcare workers. Our partnership with St. Joe's began in 2013 and continues today. Click on the imgae to read the article and see the video.
We have special relationships with several divisions of SU and appreciate them all. The Barnes Center at the Arch is the hub for student wellness. We are proud to work with them to provide quality integrated wellness services and programs. Please take a few minutes to enjoy this video.
Pet Partners CNY team Brent and Ella were featured in A Time and a Place Magazine. A Pet Partners team since 2017, they were able to log their 300th visit to Mountainside Residential Care Center by developing interactive virtual visits with the residents during the pandemic.
YAYABA
You Are Your Animal's Best Advocate
DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy) in dogs and cats is a serious issue. As more research is done, we are better able to protect our pets from this form of heart disease.
For more information see: this FDA article or this NBC report
To see an analysis of your dog's food:
A highly contagious upper respiratory infection in dogs has been occurring in many parts of the country, with symptoms similar to canine influenza and kennel cough. The cause of the illness has not yet been determined.
Current information on this deadly infection can be found on Cornell's site. Canine Respiratory Disease Outbreaks
Save the Date...
Registration at Pet Partners National is REQUIRED for both Handler Classes and Evaluations!
Handler's Classes
February 28, 2026 Syracuse (Jamesville)
March 14, 2026 LeMoyne College
March 22, 2026 LeMoyne College
April 26, 2026 SOTC (Syracuse)
(You MUST complete the Handler's Course
BEFORE participating in the Evaluation)