WCI Gives Back

 

Puppy & Kitten Cuddle Zone: The Paws-itive Boost to Mental Health

The purrs of kittens and the wiggles of puppies met the attendees at the recent WCI 2023 Conference again in an unparalleled exhibit, known as the “Puppy and Kitten Cuddle Zone.”

Beyond the bounds of an ordinary conference experience, this initiative was designed to provide a delightful respite from the workday as well as a draw to the exhibit hall.  It brought to light the often-underscored therapeutic benefits of pet interaction, and its profound impact on mental health and stress relief.

A plethora of research indicates the power of pet therapy in alleviating anxiety, reducing feelings of loneliness, and fostering positive social interactions. Interacting with animals, especially puppies and kittens, increases the release of oxytocin – the hormone responsible for nurturing and bonding. It reduces the production of cortisol, a stress-inducing hormone. Within the tranquil confines of the Cuddle Zone, conference attendees were able to witness firsthand the immediate therapeutic benefits of these interactions.

But the Cuddle Zone was not just a place to make the attendees smile; it was an avenue to drive change. By collaborating with the Pet Alliance, although it is not an adoption event per se, many of these furry bundles of joy found loving homes through the conference. All of the kittens and 3 of the 5 puppies found their furever homes.  Rest assured the other two went to homes that next weekend.

Furthermore, the event served as a fundraiser, with all proceeds channeled to support the ongoing endeavors of the Pet Alliance. Attendees generously opened their wallets and hearts, understanding that every contribution ensures a better, safer, and more loving environment for these animals.  The Pet Alliance received several thousand dollars through the sponsorship fees, cash donated onsite and through the QR code through the WCI website.

The success of the Puppy and Kitten Cuddle Zone is a testament to the multifaceted benefits of integrating pet therapy into mainstream events and discussions on mental health. As a community, we’re reminded of the simple joys and profound benefits of human-animal interactions.

We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated, adopted, and contributed to the cause. For those who missed the event or are eager to continue supporting the mission, we urge you to consider making a donation or volunteering with the Pet Alliance. Together, we can create a brighter, more compassionate world for both humans and animals alike.  See you next year!

Cuddle Zone Sponsors:
ConserveCare
Workers’ Compensation Defense Institute

Support The Pet Alliance

 

Do you love animals? Join WCI in our “Spirit to Serve” initiative as we support the Pet Alliance. The Alliance was created to rescue, heal, rehabilitate, and re-home dogs and cats in support of state, national, and international efforts and responding to emergencies that include hoarder situations, abusive homes, hurricanes, fires, floods, and other national disasters, and those that are unwanted or cannot be kept by their owners.

As a nationally recognized “go-to” pet expert, the Pet Alliance does good things for dogs and cats and the people who love them. They are always ready to assist dogs and cats in need. More than 5,200 homeless dogs and cats will turn to the Pet Alliance for caring, compassion, and hope each year. How can you help? Visit the Cuddle Zone in the Exhibit Hall for donation opportunities. All funds collected will go to feed the many hungry mouths and help pay for continued rescue efforts. Help us feed a dog or cat or sponsor a Rescue Transfer. It costs approximately $400 per animal to rescue, transfer, provide the required medical care, rehabilitate, and re-home them. Your support is critical to their efforts

How to help?

Visit the Cuddle Zone in the Exhibit Hall for donation opportunities. All funds collected will go to feed the many hungry mouths and help pay for continued rescue efforts. Help us feed a dog or cat or sponsor a Rescue Transfer. It costs approximately $400 per animal to rescue, transfer, provide the required medical care, rehabilitate, and re-home them. Your support is critical to their efforts

Puppy & Kitten Cuddle Zone

 

Puppies and kittens equal stress relief! Visit the Puppy & Kitten Cuddle Zone, sponsored by ConservCare, Inc. and Workers’ Compensation Defense Institute, located in the exhibit hall. Recharge, relax and play with furry friends in need of love and a home from the Pet Alliance.