Some of the metro area’s finest and friendliest dogs are helping spread a little joy at an Aurora, CO pediatric hospital.
About 50 dogs and their respective owners are enrolled in the Prescription Pet Program, which each week brings owners and pets to the Children’s Hospital Colorado.
The program, launched in 1984, is very popular, said hospital spokeswoman Melissa Vizcarra.
There is a lengthy waiting list of volunteers who want to enroll in the program, which won the American Hospital Award for Volunteer Excellence, the first time an animal-assisted program received the award, according to officials.
Frank Callahan has been volunteering for several years at the hospital with his mild-mannered and freshly bathed golden retriever named Sally.
He said he spent about a year on a waiting list before being admitted into the program, which includes a rigorous evaluation for the dogs and their owners.
Last week, he made the rounds on the ninth floor of Children’s Hospital, knocking on each door before entering.
“Hi, we’re with the Prescription Pets Program,” Callahan says. “Would you like to meet Sally?”
The dog gently crawls up into the bed and lies down with 11-year-old Jacob Eckman, who is watching a movie in the room with his mother. Jacob, who suffered an injury to his eye, sets aside his toys and slowly pets Sally’s belly.
“It’s a pretty good match,” Callahan says to Eckman, “because Sally really likes the attention, and kids like dogs.”
Visits last about 10 minutes, depending on the child’s response. Each gets a “business card” featuring Sally.
“She’s so soft,” says 7-year-old Eslie Arroyos. “Does she bite?”
“She does not bite,” Callahan says. “She’s a very sweet puppy.”
Sara Mark, the coordinating veterinarian for the Prescription Pet Program, evaluates each dog.
She said she doesn’t focus on the breed or size but rather on each animal’s “disposition.”
In all, about 50 percent of the dogs are failed on their initial exam, Mark said.
“You can see the positive effect,” Mark said. “The little visits that we make accomplish some long- lasting good.”
Read more: Dogs deliver good medicine to kids at Children’s Hospital ColoradoTags: animal-assisted program, children and dogs, dogs and children
