ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – Temperament testing is set to take place in June, allowing volunteers to bring their well-behaved dogs to visit patients at UW Health SwedishAmerican.
The Caring Canines program allows volunteers to bring their dog to bedside visits with patients to improve their physical, social, emotional or cognitive function.
Eligible adult and pediatric patients on five approved floors of the hospital can receive visits.
“There’s nothing better than putting smiles on faces and knowing that you’ve changed an atmosphere,” said Jill Bryan, who volunteers with her dog Gizmo. “Nurses and doctors can get you physically well, but there’s a whole aspect of mental, emotional, spiritual change, and therapy dogs do that. They bring in that peace, and that care and that love.”
The goal of the Caring Canines program is to offer patients daily visits with dogs, so volunteers and community support are crucial, according to Shelley Anderson-Beatty, manager, guest services, UW Health in northern Illinois.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, commit to at least one year of service and bring their dog to visit at least twice a month.
For dogs to participate, they must be able to:
- Sit and lie down with only one command
- Stay until called with only one command
- Walk loosely on a leash and not pull, even when excited
- Be friendly with other dogs
- Be able to perform commands without treats as a reward
- Not bark or whine
- Be up to date on all vaccines, including rabies
Along with temperament testing, volunteers must complete a four-step application process prior to acceptance.
To learn more and to apply, visit the UW Health website.
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