Paws for Comfort: How Therapy Dogs Are Transforming Hospital Experiences

In an inspiring initiative at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay in Panama City, therapy dogs are serving as furry agents of relief for hospital staff and patients. This heartwarming story showcases how a simple idea has blossomed into a meaningful program that is delivering joy and comfort when it is needed most.

The Birth of a Healing Program

Launched in January 2023, the Ascension Sacred Heart Bay therapy dog program was created in response to the emotional and psychological toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers. Michelle Moore, the program's founder, highlighted the importance of these dogs in providing moments of joy during stressful workdays. "It was driven by a need for our associates to have some joy through the day," Moore explained. The presence of therapy dogs allows hospital staff to take a break and momentarily step away from the demands of patient care.

Paw-sitively Impactful

This unique program has expanded remarkably, growing from one dog to a team of ten, each adored by staff and patients. Earnie Via, a K-9 certified master trainer, described how these canines undergo rigorous training, ensuring they are certified and ready for their roles. "It is a real job," Moore said, reflecting the dedication involved in their care and training.

The therapy dogs have not only brought smiles but made significant impacts on patient recovery. One noteworthy instance involved a patient who had been unresponsive; upon seeing the dogs, her spirits lifted, and her vital signs improved. Such stories illustrate the profound effect that canine companionship can have on human health.

Spreading Joy Beyond Hospital Walls

These therapy dogs are not only focused on the hospital's atmosphere. They have also been engaging with the broader community, visiting schools, nursing homes, and assisted living centers. Their ability to uplift spirits and foster connection makes them invaluable assets in various settings.

As the program continues to develop, it reinforces the idea that love and emotional support are crucial components of healing. “With the world condition today, we need some love out here, and these dogs bring that love,” Via remarked, capturing the essence of this life-affirming initiative.

In a world often marked by challenges, the therapy dog program at Ascension Sacred Heart Bay stands as a testament to how compassion, connection, and certified furry friends can bring light into the darkest of places.