The Role of Facility Dogs in Children’s Hospitals

Calvin Owens, a five-year-old patient at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, recently experienced a moment of joy when he stepped outside for the first time in over a month. He met Hadley, a facility dog, on the hospital patio. Even while connected to medical equipment, Calvin managed to stand and throw a ball for Hadley, prompting cheers from his caregivers.

At Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, four facility dogs, including Hadley, work full-time to support young patients. Unlike standard therapy dogs, facility dogs undergo special training to offer emotional support during stressful times, encourage physical activity, and make the hospital environment less intimidating. The use of facility dogs is increasing in children’s hospitals nationwide.

“These dogs are making a real difference,” said Kerri Rodriguez, leading the Human-Animal Bond Lab at the University of Arizona. Research highlights that interaction with facility dogs can boost children’s well-being and alleviate stress-related symptoms.

How Facility Dog Programs Operate

While the exact number of facility dogs in children’s hospitals is unknown, the growing attendance at the Facility Dog Summit illustrates their rising presence. Organizations like Canine Assistants in Georgia place numerous facility dogs specifically in children’s hospitals across the United States.

Hospitals receive these dogs from nonprofit organizations. For example, Canine Companions provides dogs to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Although hospitals do not purchase the dogs, they are responsible for costs like food and veterinary care. Fundraising or grants often help cover these expenses.

Research demonstrates clear benefits of animal-assisted therapies. A survey across 17 children’s hospitals revealed that facility dogs provide comfort, build rapport, and normalize the hospital environment. Studies also indicate that these therapies help in managing children’s pain and anxiety.

Daily Operations of Facility Dogs

Facility dogs have unique access within hospitals. For example, Opal, a dog at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, works in the pediatric behavioral health and child protection units. Maintaining cleanliness is vital, especially in sensitive areas like cancer wards where Hadley resides. Handlers often bathe her, particularly after potential exposure to germs.

Each day for Hadley begins when her handler arrives at the hospital. Hadley frequently interacts with patients but also enjoys breaks. For instance, on a recent day, she played with Grover, another facility dog, in a designated area.

Inside the hospital, Hadley and her peers are popular figures. They appear on TV shows broadcasted within the hospital, and images of them decorate the halls. Children can send them letters, receive replies, and collect trading cards featuring the dogs. These elements contribute to a morale boost among patients.

Patients like 14-year-old Aspen Franklin, who has a severe immune disorder, benefit greatly from these interactions. For her, Hadley provides not only companionship but also a calming presence during prolonged hospital stays.

Facility dogs also support families. During a bone marrow transplant procedure, Hadley offered comfort to Aspen and her brother Emory, who donated his cells.

Hadley’s workday is filled with interactions. After spending time with Calvin, who has a rare form of arthritis, she visited Bethany Striggles, an 11-year-old recovering from chemotherapy. Throughout the day, Hadley helps motivate the children to stay active and brings smiles to their faces.

Even Hadley needs rest. She retires to her ‘lair’ equipped with toys and a comfortable bed. A bulletin board nearby displays thank-you notes from children.

Note: This article uses information supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.