ARPA Awaits Health Ministry Nod for Pet Dog Visits at Andorra Hospital

The Animal Rescue and Protection Association (ARPA) is awaiting a key meeting with Andorra's Health Ministry to advance its proposal for an outdoor space at Nostra Senyora de Meritxell Hospital, where patients can receive visits from their pet dogs.

ARPA president Jaume Vilamajó told *El Periòdic* that the project has already been presented to the government, with strong support from the Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Ministry. Officials there view it positively and see it as a worthwhile initiative. The group now needs the Health Ministry's stance to determine feasibility and implementation details.

The proposal forms part of ARPA's activities this year. It aims to let hospitalised patients—particularly those with long stays or in palliative care—see their companion animals. Vilamajó stressed the emotional benefits, allowing owners to check on their dogs and maintain vital bonds during extended admissions.

ARPA launched the idea independently, but it aligns with a similar initiative from GosSOS, inspired by a successful programme in Catalonia. GosSOS president Audrey Montel previously noted that Catalan professionals are offering guidance to Andorran authorities for critical or long-term patients.

The proposal has backing from Ronronejand, whose president Beatriu Montalvo called it "very important" for both people and animals. She recommended focusing on dogs, however, as cats are highly territorial and could face significant stress outside their home environment. Even so, she underscored the value of such visits for reunions or farewells in serious cases.

No date has been set for the Health Ministry meeting, leaving the project's next steps unclear.