Some might call these the “dog days” of summer. Enjoy it while it lasts! And if summer isn’t fun enough already, I had to share with you a few recent photos from events involving our therapy dogs.
Earlier in August, with the help from the MSBI Housestaff Council, our Director of our Volunteer Services, and our amazing volunteers, dedicated time was created for our residents and interns to connect with some of our therapy dogs, including poodle Cherry and bearded-collie Emma (with their volunteers Mindy Berkower and Eric Rayman). The Instagram-famous NYC “hugging” golden retriever Louboutina was also there with her owner Cesar Fernandez-Chavez, who manages our interpreter program. It was wonderful to see our residents relax and connect with these canine healers and with each other.
In June, Zoe and her handler Alistair brought joy to our patients and staff in the Pediatric Observation Unit.
We have many other therapy dogs who come to visit our inpatient and ambulatory sites weekly. I’m incredibly grateful to these volunteers for their commitment of time and caring and that both our patients and staff can relax and receive the healing love from these adorable creatures.