ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – Several therapy dogs and their handlers were honored Friday for the time they take out of their day to help patients in need.
The Animal-Assisted Therapy program started in Rockford’s OSF Saint Anthony Hospital.
Officials say it helps morale for employees and patients, lowers blood pressure and improves their day.
The hospital also thanked volunteer Jim Page and his dog Maddie who has worked with the program for 12 years.
Page said the job is worth it, recalling several times Maddie made a difference in patients’ healing journeys.
“She has seen people at their best, at their worst, she has had people come up to her and say, ‘Maddie, we just lost her.’ They won’t talk to me, but they’ll talk to her and that’s a big deal,” said Page.
For volunteers interested in applying to be part of the Animal-Assisted Therapy program, visit OSF HealthCare’s website.
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