Delivering Happiness One Piggy Visit at a Time
March 10, 2025
Ashley Skelton, a veterinary assistant at DuPont Veterinary Center, and her therapy guinea pig, Puff the Magic Piggy, beautifully exemplify our dedication to fostering strong community connections. Through the incredible human-animal bond, they bring joy, comfort, and improved health to those they touch, showcasing the profound impact of compassionate care.
Since April 2024, Ashley and Puff have been a registered Pet Partners therapy animal team in Western Washington. Puff, a charming red roan Teddy guinea pig, has brought happiness and solace to countless individuals. From helping military children improve their reading skills at Puff’s Cozy Corner on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, to bringing back fond childhood memories for seniors at assisted living facilities, Puff's impact has been profound.
At Puff's Cozy Corner, which takes place once a month at the base's McChord Library, Puff sees anywhere from 4-12 kids who get to read to him and pet him. “He actually will look at the book with you, so it’s super cute,” said Brenda Camren, the library’s branch manager. The assisted living residents love holding and petting him. They don’t want to give him back after their visit. Some residents start talking about their childhood and the pets they had growing up, while others just softly talk to him and enjoy the interaction.
Pet Partners’ mission is to enhance human health and well-being through the human-animal bond, and Puff's mission aligns perfectly: to spread Piggy Love and Magic to those who need it most. This year, we are incredibly proud to announce that Puff has been nominated for the 2025 Pet Partners Pet of the Year! This prestigious nomination is a testament to the incredible work Ashley and Puff have done together.
The 2025 Pet Partners Pet of the Year competition is a six-week fundraising campaign. Puff is the only guinea pig in the competition, making this nomination even more special. Regardless of the outcome, we know Puff will continue to bring smiles to everyone he meets.
