On Wednesday, Hospice of Montezuma announced a collaboration with Pet Peace of Mind to help local hospice patients take care of and make plans for their pets.

The collaboration will launch March 1, and a news release noted that Pet Peace of Mind “aligns with the Hospice of Montezuma’s mission to provide our community a nonprofit organization of dedicated professionals and volunteers providing end-of-life care, support and guidance to all individuals and families.”

Pet Peace of Mind helps patients plan their pets’ care after their life ends.

Hospice of Montezuma will partner with local pet care providers such as Denkai Animal Sanctuary to ensure that patients’ pets receive food, veterinarian care and exercise.

The nonprofit Pet Peace of Mind, based in Salem, Oregon, partners with hospices and hospitals.

“Our commitment is to our patients and their well-being. Hospice patients fare better when they get to keep their pets and know they are getting the love and attention they need,” Pet Peace of Mind said.

“Pet Peace of Mind has offered the program, LOR Foundation and generous donors have assisted with funding, and local pet care providers have offered a partnership, ensuring our patients and their pets can remain together,” says Carol Baumgartner, executive director Hospice of Montezuma.

Denkai Animal Sanctuary will help provide care to animals in the program.

“Hospice has been amazing,” Denkai Director Floss Blackburn told The Journal. “They’ve done wonderful things to help, and we’re trying to collaborate with them.”

To become a Hospice of Montezuma volunteer or to donate, visit their website www.hospiceofmontezuma.org or their office on 512 N. Broadway in Cortez. They ask that the donation specify that it is for the Pet Peace of Mind program.

More information about Pet Peace of Mind is at www.petpeaceofmind.org.