I thought that a good experience for me would be to go around and shadow a person who brought their animal to a hospital. This would provide a first hand look at how AAT can really help people. Working through my mentor, I was able to set up a shadow with a lady named Leslie and her dog, Jake.
Jake is a nine year old golden retriever. He is not a certified therapy dog as of now, he acts more like one big teddy bear. He is really the sweetest thing, offering hand shakes and "kisses." I was told he would even chase bubbles for little kids. I went around with Jake on only his fourth time in the hospital, although you would never know it by the way he acted. He was very sure of himself and seemed to really enjoy having people pet him.
Jake wasn't the only one who enjoyed the Hospitality Pet Program at WakeMed, it seems the kids really got a kick out of it too. Some were a little hesitant, a little unsure about the size of the 90 pound dog. Others immediatly called the dog to their bedside, telling us about dogs or pets that might be at home waiting for them to get back. It drew smilies on all faces alike, some the only smile they shared since be admitted to the hospital.
Parents and doctors also loved the dogs. The staff would get down on the floor and play with the dog as much as the kids did. You would walk down the hall and you could watch as people noticed the dog for the first time and their faces lit up. Parents would ask all sorts of questions as some considered bring home a dog themselves after they fell in love with Jake and his personality. Even I, myself, left WakeMed with a smile on my face as I headed back to school.
The experience I had shadowing Leslie showed a lot to me. I truly saw how much of an impact animals have on our emotions and health. I would challenge anyone to go around with a therapy dog and then not be able to see the benefits of such a program in their healthcare setting. It would be impossible.
I have also decided that after I become a doctor, I want part of my day to be filled with bringing my dogs to the hospital and letting them visit with patients. It is a great experience for all involved, and I am grateful that I got to see it first hand.
This is a picture with me and Jake. Isn't he a cutie?
This is Jake and Leslie, the lady who let me follow her around for a day
