The Human-Animal Bond In Tennessee is better known as H.A.B.I.T. Established in 1986, H.A.B.I.T. is a community group of volunteers working together to explore the circumstances and consequences of the human-animal bond and to promote this valuable bond between people and animals. The program is comprised of representatives from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine, volunteers from the community and private veterinary practitioners.

H.A.B.I.T. sponsors programs that foster pet visitation to nursing homes, assisted-living residences, retirement centers, mental health centers, residences for children with special needs, rehabilitation facilities, hospital settings and other facilities. Patients and staff alike enjoy the rewards of knowing and visiting with these incredibly selfless, loving animals and people.

H.A.B.I.T. offers resources such as trained volunteers, medically and behaviorally screened animals, and guidance regarding pet visitation, program development and evaluation.

The Cancer Institute offers pet visitation almost every day during the week. Some of the visitors patients will meet include the following.

• Monday afternoon: Maggie (Bearded Collie) and Vicki Anderson.
• Tuesday morning: Chelsea (Golden Retriever) and Dennis Hayward do double duty by visiting both outpatient and inpatient units.
• Thursday mornings: Jordan (Pomeranian puff-ball) and owner Trish Rawls.
• Friday morning: A.J. (Great Pyrenees/Golden Retriever mix) drags Dennis Hayward back to do their duty.