Polly might not sport a white coat, but she’s certainly got a way of making patients feel at ease.
This Labrador Retriever recently paid a visit to an eight-year-old cancer patient at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Einstein (CHAM). The child had started experiencing tremors after having their breathing tube removed and their sedatives adjusted.
“When Polly was by this patient’s side, they calmed down quite a bit, and their tremors lessened,” said Katy Dessick, Polly’s handler and a child life specialist, sharing details with The Post.
Polly’s comforting presence helped alleviate what Dessick called “an incredibly challenging and emotional situation” for both the child and their family, who could visibly see the positive impact the dog had.
This small interaction showcases how facility dogs—specially trained canines that work alongside healthcare professionals—offer much more than just a distraction in hospital settings. Experts indicate they can assist children in managing anxiety, navigating intimidating medical procedures, and finding emotional relief while dealing with serious health issues.
Research supports these claims. A 2023 study conducted in a pediatric unit in Japan found that 73% of medical staff noted that facility dogs “Always” or “Very often” improved patient cooperation with treatments and procedures.
In hospitals like CHAM and Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, the benefits are represented through Polly, aged four, and Lev, a seven-year-old Labrador stationed in Maimonides’ pediatric department.
Encouraging Kids to Open Up
Serious health challenges can really disrupt a child’s sense of normalcy. Hospital stays, invasive methods, and being separated from loved ones can leave young patients feeling frightened and anxious, often unsure of how to articulate what they’re going through.
Dr. Adit L. Tal, a pediatric hematologist-oncologist at CHAM, described how children dealing with blood disorders and cancer frequently have trouble expressing their emotions to their healthcare teams.
But canines like Polly can bridge that gap.
“Having a facility dog gives them that comfort to communicate more openly,” Tal mentioned. “With the dog around, I’ve noticed our patients become calmer and more willing to talk to me and the medical staff.”
And it’s not just younger kids. Dessick observes that even teens feel more comfortable around Polly, especially during therapeutic art sessions that help them express their emotions.
“One of Lev’s favorite activities is receiving treats from the patients, and they absolutely love the chance to give them,” shared Gabriel, Lev’s handler.
Polly and Dessick have been working together for nearly three years, visiting children throughout CHAM’s various pediatric specialties. Polly’s gentle nature helps Dessick navigate difficult emotional scenarios, and her ability to adapt makes it easy for patients with different physical capabilities to interact with her.
“Polly has this unique talent for making everyone she meets feel special,” Dessick noted.
At Maimonides, Lev provides a similar source of comfort. His handler, Gabriel, has been with him since he was just a puppy.
“Lev gives them a chance to focus on something else entirely,” Gabriel explained. “For a brief moment, it’s less about being a patient and more about enjoying the company of a dog, sharing a laugh, and just being a kid again.”
Motivation from Four Legs
Facility dogs also play a role in tackling the more challenging aspects of medical care.
When kids hesitate to engage in physical therapy or get out of bed, the presence of a dog can motivate them to try again, Tal indicated. These animals can ease fears concerning medications, central line placements, and upcoming procedures.
Interestingly, their presence can even result in less need for pain medication.
The benefits extend beyond just the patients. Caring for seriously ill children and supporting distressed families can weigh heavily on medical staff, and facility dogs help bring moments of tranquility amid the demanding nature of hospital work.
“Our roles can be emotionally draining, so having a dog around to bring some calm has been vital for our well-being,” commented Tal.
A 2022 study of pediatric hospital staff found that those working alongside facility dogs reported improved morale, well-being, and strengthened relationships with their patients and families.
At both CHAM and Maimonides, facility dog programs receive support from the EnCourage Kids Foundation, a nonprofit organization in New York City that collaborates with hospitals to enhance pediatric experiences through initiatives like pet and music therapy.
A Bit Less Hospital, a Bit More Childhood
Amid all the serious work Polly and Lev do, they also make sure to squeeze in some playtime.
“Lev really enjoys getting treats from the patients,” Gabriel said. “And the kids love being the ones who get to offer them.”
The dogs also appreciate a good belly rub, often stretching out on the floor to soak up the affection from little visitors.
They’re undeniably good boys and girls.
Gabriel emphasized that these spontaneous moments encapsulate the essence of their visits.
“A child who might have been withdrawn or nervous can instantly brighten up when interacting with Lev,” he observed. “That’s really what these visits are about—offering comfort, joy, and a sense of normalcy, even if just for a short while.”
