Children's hospitals in the Bronx are utilizing therapy dogs to alleviate the stress experienced by young patients. Katy Dessick, a senior child life specialist, highlights the calming influence of Polly, a therapy dog. Polly helps normalize the hospital environment, offering comfort that creates positive experiences for patients and their families. This approach not only aids in reducing anxiety but also promotes activities familiar to children from home and school. The joy on patients' faces when interacting with Polly exemplifies her invaluable role in enhancing the hospital experience during challenging moments.
Polly helps normalize the environment. You know, this is an odd environment for families.
The key is creating positive experiences somewhere where negative experiences can become overwhelming.
Polly is a really calming presence for both the patients and their anxious parents.
When we walk into a room and hear from the staff that this patient hasn't smiled in weeks... they meet Polly and they get excited.
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