The Austell location of PetSmart and its pet-loving customers know that animals have calming effects, even when they’re toys. The pet supply emporium teamed up with Metro Atlanta Ambulance Service to deliver smile-inducing stuffed animals to children in the pediatric emergency department at WellStar Cobb Hospital this holiday season.
Devan Seabaugh, vice president of Metro Atlanta Ambulance Service said, “We keep stuffed animals in our ambulances and give them to kids experiencing anxiety during an emergency. The stuffed animal is a friendly distraction that calms them and lets them know we are there to help. We work closely with WellStar and wanted to give the team at WellStar Cobb Hospital a chance to connect with patients this way too.”
In the past few months, PetSmart’s customers bought stuffed kittens and pups at the store’s checkout and donated them right back to the store. With the help of MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service, PetSmart delivered 200 to WellStar Cobb Hospital to help calm kids and seniors in the stressful moments following an emergency.
“We’re passionate about giving our pets the best of everything and our pets want their pet parents to have the best care when they need it too!” said Josh McGrew, assistant store leader for PetSmart in Austell. “We’re so happy to help bring a little comfort to patients while they’re getting the care they need in the ambulance and the Emergency Department. Giving back to our local community through our annual donation program has been an honor. ”
WellStar Health System sees more patients in its Emergency Departments than any other health system in Georgia and Cobb Hospital one of the busiest in the state. At Cobb, patients receive world-class emergency care through the comprehensive, child-focused Pediatric Emergency Department.
“Pet people are compassionate people, and we’re so thankful for their generosity!” said Amy Carrier, president of WellStar Cobb Hospital. “When we can help people –and especially kids – feel more comfortable in the medical setting, they’re more relaxed during examinations, testing and treatment. Our team is so grateful for the chance to work with first responders like MetroAtlanta Ambulance Service every day and we’re incredibly appreciative of the people at PetSmart and their customers – people who care and want to help however they can.”
