Wet Noses, Warm Hearts
Mission & Values
Mission Statement:
Pets On Wheels
of Scottsdale
At Pets On Wheels of Scottsdale, our mission is to channel the unique bond between humans and animals to bring comfort, joy, and companionship to those in our community.
We are committed to enriching the lives of seniors and the greater community through regular, heartfelt visits from our dedicated volunteers and their pets.
Our goal is to alleviate loneliness, foster connections, and spread happiness, one visit at a time. Through these interactions, we not only uplift the spirits of those we serve but also provide our volunteers and their pets with meaningful, fulfilling experiences.
We believe in the transformative impact of the human-animal bond in healing hearts and nurturing spirits. Our journey is one of mutual healing, community engagement, and the celebration of the love and warmth that pet therapy brings into our lives.
History & Founders
Neal & Anne Jennings: The Founders
The Founding Story
In 1990, Neal C. Jennings, a retired civil engineer, along with his wife, Anne, laid the foundation of Pets on Wheels of Scottsdale, Inc. Inspired by a passion for volunteerism and the human-animal bond, Neal spearheaded the pet visitation therapy program with just two dogs and one nursing home in Scottsdale. His vision was clear: to offer superior, heartfelt service within a focused area rather than diluting the impact over a larger region.
Neal Jennings passed away on October 2, 2018, at the age of 95.
Continuing the Legacy
Today, Pets On Wheels continues to embody the spirit and vision of its founders. Our dedicated volunteers and their pets, carry forward the mission of bringing joy, comfort, and healing through pet therapy, making a difference one visit at a time.
Leadership
Board of Directors
The Pets on Wheels board of directors is composed of volunteers who set the direction of the organization and ensure it is fulfilling its mission.
Vice President
Jill
Neitzke
DIRECTOR
Jill, a retired portfolio manager, started visiting with her dog Ella in 2015, followed by Jade; now Jill visits with Jake and Finley.
Secretary
Marsha
Usdane
DIRECTOR
Marsha, a retired social worker and agency director, started visiting with her Shih Tzu, Munchkin, in 2014.
Treasurer
Andrew
Mark
DIRECTOR
Andrew, a Certified Public Accountant, no longer has a pet in the program, but in 1993, he visited with his dog, Pinbo, for a few years.
Facilities Coordinator
Andrea
Wilson
DIRECTOR
Andrea, a retired radiology technician, started visiting with her French Bulldog, Mr. Hobbs in 2022.
Data Coordinator
Nancy
Maurer
DIRECTOR
Nancy, a retired finance executive, started visiting with her dog, Rosie, in 2008 followed by Max and now Roger and Henry.
Correspondence Coordinator
Colleen
Brault
DIRECTOR
Colleen, a pet boutique manager and retired professional ice skater, started visiting with her Chihuahua, Mya, in 2016.
Events Coordinator
Diane
Bykowski
DIRECTOR
Diane, an artist and retired educator and speech coach, started visiting with her Maltipoo, Zoe, in 2011 and now visits with her Miki, Mia.
Newsletter Editor
Brian
Hankes
Brian, a graphic designer who now lives in Wisconsin, started visiting with his Beagle, Baby, in 2019. They visited for 2 years before their move.