MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – UW Health is looking to expand their successful program, Caring Canines.
According to organizers, the program was first launched in 2023 to help patients and families cope with stress while they were staying at the hospital.
When the program first opened, there were 440 applications for dogs. After further testing for things like obedience and temperament, 26 dogs were selected.
Brianna Peterson, a child life specialist and canine program coordinator for UW Health Kids, said the dogs were chosen for very specific reasons.
“Breed, age or size are not as important as excellent obedience and the right temperament,” she said. “The enthusiasm from the community has been extraordinary, but we want folks to know only about 10 to 15% of the dogs that applied that we tested for temperament were the right fit for a hospital setting.”
Below is a list of requirements dogs must follow to pass the temperament test:
- Sit and lie down with only one command.
- Stay until called with only one command.
- Walk in heel position, with a relaxed leash, not pulling even when excited.
- Perform commands without treats as a reward.
- Not excessively bark, howl or whine.
- Be up to date on all required vaccines and annual testing which include rabies, DHPP, leptospirosis, Bordetella and heartworm and fecal testing.
Peterson said the program’s goal is to offer a good visit for patients to feel normal.
Without the community’s support, she said the success of the program over the last two years wouldn’t have been possible. She said these visits have a tremendous impact on patients.
“These visits mean so much to the kids which is why we are searching for a dog with exceptional obedience,” Peterson said. “It never gets old seeing a kid’s face light up when a dog comes in the room for a cuddle.”
If you are interested in applying your dog, click here.
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