A wagging tail can do more than make a child smile. At Nemours Children’s Health, therapy dogs are helping patients feel more comfortable during their hospital stay while also supporting their emotional well-being.
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The hospital’s Pet Therapy Program, officially known as Animal Assisted Activities, has been a favorite among patients, families and associates for years. Whether they’re visiting a patient’s room or offering a moment of comfort during a challenging day, the dogs have a way of lifting spirits.
The benefits go far beyond companionship.
Through the Reading Paws program, patients can practice their reading skills by reading aloud to a therapy dog. The program creates a supportive, judgment-free environment where children can build confidence and strengthen literacy skills at their own pace.
The combination of comfort, connection and encouragement makes the therapy dog programs a meaningful part of the patient experience at Nemours.
What began as recognition of the bond between people and animals has evolved over the past 50 years into a growing field of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) with proven benefits for patients of all ages. Research suggests that among the various animals involved in AAT, dogs tend to exhibit superior interactions with people compared to other species, benefiting both children and adults.
Listen to my interview with Jill Mundry - Director of Volunteer Services at Nemours here:
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