Children's hospitals are using therapy dogs to make the hospital experience less frightening for young patients.

At the Children's Hospital at Montefiore in the Bronx, New York, therapy dog Polly works with senior child life specialist Katy Dessick to comfort patients, families, and staff. Dessick says Polly helps normalize the hospital environment, making it feel more like home or school, which encourages positive activities.

Polly’s calming presence helps reduce anxiety and can spark joy in children who may have been withdrawn. Dessick finds the impact rewarding, especially when previously unresponsive children light up after meeting Polly.

abc7.com