Trained dogs working inside hospitals help ease burnout among health care staff
At HCA HealthONE Rose Medical Center in Denver, two wagging tails, belonging to therapy dogs, bring smiles and a sense of peace to the hardworking staff.
These dogs aren't just visitors; they're part of the team, providing much-needed emotional support to the medical staff. Dr. Susan Ryan, an emergency medicine physician, knows firsthand the benefits of having a canine companion at work. After experiencing PTSD from her years in the ER, she found solace in a Labrador named Peppi. The presence of these dogs helps staff decompress and take a breather from their high-stress environment, proving that a wagging tail can be the best medicine.
"A dog can be that calming influence," Ryan told NPR. "You can get down on the ground, pet them, and you just get calm."
The dogs are kept away from allergic patients and washed regularly to prevent germs from spreading, and people must wash their hands before and after petting them.
The hospital's CEO, Casey Guber, is such a fan of the canine connection that he even has his own dog, Ralphie, who holds the title of Chief Dog Officer. Ralphie and the other therapy dogs have become beloved members of the hospital community, bringing joy and comfort to everyone they meet.
Whether it's a surgeon rolling on the ground with Ralphie or a nurse taking him for a walk, these dogs are making a pawsitive impact on the mental health and morale of the hospital staff.