WHAT: UPMC Hillman Cancer Center celebrates five years of pet therapy with a special recognition for volunteer pets and their owners. There are 25 certified pet therapy dogs and their owners who volunteer at one of four UPMC Hillman Cancer Centers: Hillman in Shadyside, Monroeville, Upper St. Clair and Jefferson. This year, special recognition will be given to Tillie, a 12-year-old black Labrador Retriever, who will be presented with the “silver paw award” for her five years of service.

WHY: Pet therapy helps people cope with health problems, reduce stress and improve mood and energy levels while providing a sense of companionship. At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the pet therapy program permits certified therapy dogs to visit with patients and their families in the outpatient clinics. Pet therapy teams may visit up to 2 hours at a time. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center hopes to expand the pet therapy program to other cancer centers within the community.

WHO: Certified pet therapy dogs, owners, Hillman volunteers and patients

WHERE: Cooper Conference Room, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, 5115 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, 15232

WHEN: Thursday, June 29

• 12:30 p.m. – Award ceremony, group photo and activity in Cooper Conference Room

• 1 to 2:30 p.m. – Hillman Cancer Center main entrance patio for visits with patients, visitors and staff, with special treats for the dogs!