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Denver, CO – The snow falls outside, mirroring the flurry of activity within the labor and delivery unit at HCA HealthONE Rose Medical Center. Amidst the stress of bringing new life into the world, a unique form of therapy is helping staff cope: canine companions.
“There’s a lot of action here,” says OB-GYN Kristina Fraser, “and it can be very stressful.” But the arrival of Peppi, a cheerful yellow Labrador, brings a moment of calm. “Everyone takes a deep breath and decompresses,” Fraser observes.
Peppi isn’t just a visitor; she’s a valuable member of the team. Carefully trained Labradors like Peppi are increasingly being integrated into hospital settings to combat the growing mental health crisis among healthcare workers.
High rates of burnout, depression, anxiety, and even suicide are plaguing the healthcare profession. The presence of these gentle companions provides a much-needed emotional outlet.
For Dr. Susan Ryan, an emergency medicine physician, the benefits are personal. Years of intense work left her struggling with PTSD. Bringing Peppi to work has been transformative. “When I have a bad day, and Peppi is here, my day’s going to be made better,” says EMT Jasmine Richardson.
The impact extends beyond individual staff members. Patients, too, often find comfort in the presence of these furry friends.
Rose Medical Center President and CEO Casey Guber, a strong advocate for this initiative, even has his own canine companion, Ralphie, serving as the hospital’s “Chief Dog Officer.”
This growing trend reflects a growing understanding of the powerful therapeutic role animals can play in mitigating the stress and trauma inherent in healthcare work. As Dr. Ryan emphasizes, “Anything that brings you back to the present time helps ground you again. A dog can be that calming influence.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
This article has been adapted from the original provided.
