Pets hold a special place in our hearts- they offer unconditional love, comfort, and companionship, especially during life’s most challenging moments. For hospice patients, the bond they share with their pets can bring peace, joy, and emotional support during their final days.
To help ensure that no hospice patient must worry about the care of their beloved pet, Gulfside Hospice is hosting its annual Virtual Pet Pageant to benefit the Pet Peace of Mind® program.
Supporting Patients and Pets during End-of-Life Care
The Pet Peace of Mind® program provides vital assistance to hospice patients by helping care for their pets when they are no longer able to do so themselves. This program relieves stress and anxiety, allowing patients to focus on comfort and meaningful moments with their pets. This program is funded through donations- thus community support and outreach are essential.
Get Involved and Make a Difference
Community members are invited to enter their pets to win a “Best Pet Pal of Tampa Bay 2026”—all while supporting hospice patients and their cherished companions. Additionally, the new Rainbow Pets Tribute Category allows participants to submit their pets who have passed away.
All pets are welcome! Cats, dogs, birds, reptiles, fish, and more can be entered into the virtual pageant with a $10 donation at GulfsidePets.org.
Each contestant will:
Supporters can vote for their favorite pets, with each vote counting as a $1 donation toward the program.
Important Dates and Awards:
Award categories include:
Every tribute shared also helps support Gulfside Hospice’s Pet Peace of Mind® program, which ensures hospice patients never have to worry about the care of their beloved pets.
Whether you enter your pet, cast a vote, or help spread the word, your participation helps bring comfort, care, and peace of mind to hospice patients and the pets they love.
More About Gulfside Healthcare Services
Gulfside Healthcare Services is a nonprofit organization that has served the community for more than 36 years. Its three lines of care include Gulfside Hospice, providing compassionate end-of-life care; Gulfside Palliative Care, offering treatment options for individuals with chronic illness; and Gulfside Home Health, helping patients remain independent through skilled nursing and rehabilitation services at home.
To learn more, visit www.Gulfside.org or call 800-561-4883.
For more information about entering or sponsoring the Virtual Pet Pageant, contact:
Katya Guillaume
Donor Relations Specialist
📞 727-845-5707
✉️ Katya.Guillaume@gulfside.org
🌐 GulfsidePets.org