Studies have shown that having therapy dogs make short, in-room visits to adults and children who would enjoy the company of a furry friend ALSO has the added benefit of reducing stress, promoting healing, lowering blood pressure, and lifting spirits. In addition, pet therapy provides a comforting source of healing touch for children and adults in the hospital.
And now, an extremely popular therapy dog has been given the green light to get back to work at Huntington Hospital!
Hazel is a certified therapy dog who, along with her handler, Gary Zelner, were long-time volunteers at Huntington Hospital until the COVID pandemic required them to stop making their regularly-scheduled visits last spring.
But now, they can resume making their rounds!
With her calming demeanor and comforting approach, Hazel’s presence was a source of great joy to the patients and staff on Monday, February 22nd when she made her triumphant return!
Hazel and Zelner plan on visiting the hospital about once a week.
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