Oklahoma Children’s Hospital ‘Paws for Purpose’ program brings new best friends to children
Although healing journeys can look different for everyone, who wouldn’t want to do it with a best friend — particularly a friend that can wag its tail in excitement? The Oklahoma Children’s Hospital Paws for Purpose program has been helping patients with cognitive, physical and emotional healing since 2017. In a story from KWTV News 9 one of the dogs, Prince, has been working with Caleb Brumley, a 13-year-old recovering from a dirt bike accident. Prince has been instrumental in helping Caleb relearn how to walk and cope with his trauma and pain.
"Healing is essentially what we’re doing and it’s incredible to see the change in a kid’s face or a family space when they see that we get to interact with the dogs," said Kelly Simmons, Manager for Pediatric Rehabilitation.
With five golden retrievers currently a part of the program, the hospital aims to expand its services to help more children and families manage hospitalization and trauma.