Indian River Medical Center (IRMC) has implemented a Pet Therapy Program at the Scully-Welsh Cancer Center, understanding that sometimes a furry friend can offer the best medicine for the psyche. This is just one way IRMC focuses on a patient’s mind, body and spirit.
Visiting with a certified pet therapy dog can provide patients and their caregivers with comfort and relief, and offer a distraction from pain, discomfort and feelings of isolation.
All pet therapy dogs and their handlers must undergo a thorough screening and certification process. During a visit from a therapy dog, the dog’s owner walks the dog through the Cancer Center, stopping to greet patients and visitors. For patients receiving treatment, the visit might be limited to a wave from their room to a dog passing by, or the patient can request longer visits where the animal can sit in the patient’s lap or stand at the ready for a petting session.
