Pet therapy unleashes a newbrand of healing to patients

Here comes “Welcome Waggers”

Volunteers Abbie and Hanne greet each patient the same way, with tails wagging. The dogs are part of a new pet therapy program recently launched at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center. Abbie, a German shepherd, and Hanne, a miniature wire-haired dachshund, visit the hospital twice a month. Twelve dog and owner teams are part of the program, which brings pets to patients at the hospital three times per week.

Marjorie Turmel, gets a visit from, Abbie, a trained therapy dog and
her owner Minette Merger in the Physical Therapy Department.

Pet visits are a welcome break

The program is the hospital’s response to research findings that patients who have access to animals are more receptive to medical treatment and nourishment. “I have seen these dogs bring true happiness to our patients,” said Nancy Elliott, director of Volunteer Services and supervisor of the program. “Many times these dogs give our patients a mental outlet that they would not otherwise have throughout the day.”

Not just any pooch!

To become volunteers, the dogs must be at least a year old and be classified as American Kennel Club “Canine Good Citizens.” They are required to undergo a series of tests, including obedience training and temperament evaluation, and be accessed by a certified Therapy Dog International trainer. Once they have completed training and received their TDI certification, the dogs and handlers are ready for patient visits. Dog owners must also attend volunteer orientation at the hospital. Patients can request a visit from the “Welcome Waggers” at their nursing stations.

For more information about volunteering at Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, call 312-6109. For more information about TDI, visit www.tdi-dog.org.