At Seattle Children’s Hospital, a yellow lab named Patty is doing more than just fetching balls; he’s fetching smiles and healing hearts.
Previously, dogs were rare in hospitals, but Patty is no ordinary visitor.
Patty’s presence is a testament to the growing acceptance and recognition of animal-assisted therapy in healthcare settings…
A Typical Day for Patty: More Than Just a Walk 🐾
With his handler Kristi Dudzik by his side, Patty is not just a well-behaved dog; he’s a professional at work.
From sitting and staying to healing on command, Patty relishes his job.
His weekly rounds at the hospital are not just walks through the halls; they are critical touchpoints for patients undergoing various treatments.
It’s here that Patty shines, helping not only to bring joy but also with physical rehabilitation exercises.
The Impact of a Wagging Tail
One of the patients, an eleven-year-old named Carver, has had his mobility affected by medulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer.
During a session with Patty, Carver finds comfort in the softness of Patty’s fur, and even a simple lick on the hand brings out a precious smile.
This interaction, though seemingly small, plays a crucial role in therapy.
The program director, Rosalie Frankel, notes that these moments take patients out of their usual environment and bring immense joy…
Rehab Becomes Recess
For another young patient named Logan, who is recovering from cerebral palsy surgery, rehabilitation sessions can be daunting.
However, with Patty in the room, these sessions become something akin to recess.
The encouragement and joy of interacting with Patty help Logan and others like him exert extra effort, which is a key component in their recovery process.
Unconditional Love as Medicine
Studies highlighting how interactions with dogs can significantly relax patients and aid their recovery support the therapeutic benefits of dogs like Patty.
What makes therapy dogs extraordinary isn’t just their training or ability to follow commands; it’s the unconditional love and joy they bring. This unique form of support resonates deeply with the patients, their families, and the medical staff.
Therapy dogs bring much-needed warmth and compassion in a world where medical treatments can often be harsh and sterile.
For many Seattle Children’s Hospital patients, Patty is not just a dog; he’s a beacon of hope—a furry friend on their journey to recovery.
Indeed, the paw prints he leaves behind are imprinted on more than just the floors of the hospital; they are etched in the hearts of those he helps heal… 🐾💖
