How We Help:

We provide temporary pet care for patients undergoing medical treatment in the hospital through a dedicated network of experienced volunteers.

Currently, we are equipped to provide care to dogs and cats (based on temperament and care needs).
Please reach out for more details about care for other small companion animals.

Our Service Area:

A regional map highlighting areas in orange, with neighboring regions in light gray, showing geographic boundaries and borders.

We support pets and their people located in the counties surrounding Rochester, MN, where many of our volunteers and community members are based.

Counties we serve: Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Winona.

Testimonials:

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  • “This was a lifesaver for me.

    This program not only saved me from having to discharge early because I couldn't afford the kennel she was at, but it also gave me piece of mind that my baby was in someone's home and she was able to snuggle with someone and be loved on.” — Jennifer P.

  • 100%

    of clients were very satisfied with their overall experience with Sunny’s Helping Paws and the care provided to your pet(s)

  • Our Biggest Strengths:

    Communication; Imparting a sense of comfort and safety; Flexibility in meeting unexpected requirements.

    — Karen L.

  • 100%

    of clients reported that Sunny’s Helping Paws service helped give them peace of mind during care/treatment/recovery

Do you know someone who is in need of our services?

Complete a referral today!

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • We provide volunteer, temporary care for cats and dogs while their owners receive in-hospital medical treatment towards our goal of making sure no one has to choose between getting the care they need and keeping their pets safe.

  • We currently support people across Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmstead, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Winona counties in Southeastern Minnesota who are facing a medical situation that requires a hospital stay and who do not have another trusted person who can care for their cat(s) or dog(s).

    As we grow, we hope to expand our capacity to meet the wider needs we know exist in our home community and beyond.

  • Length of care depends on your medical needs and our volunteer availability. Most stays align with the duration of your hospital treatment. We work closely with each family to understand their timeline.

  • Pets are placed in trusted volunteer foster homes within our service area. All volunteers are screened, trained and certified in pet first aid, and supported by our team to ensure pets receive safe, loving, consistent care.

    Please get in touch to discuss any concerns and options for in-home care for nervous travellers.

  • No.

    Our goal is to remove barriers to treatment. Care is provided free of charge, thanks to volunteers and donor support.

  • There are three great ways to get involved:

    1. Volunteer with us

    2. Donate to help us grow

    3. Share our mission with your network and community