The Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) program at Phoenix Children’s brings the therapeutic benefits of animal interaction to both beside care and hospital events. Our goal is to help patients, families and staff through difficult procedures and extended hospitalizations. This program consists of volunteer therapy animal teams, as well as full-time, professionally trained facility dog teams.
Doctors, nurses, therapists and child life specialists can request AAT for their patients at any time. Our team works closely with the patient’s care team to design sessions that support individualized treatment goals. While we make every effort to accommodate requests, AAT visits are not guaranteed and are based on availability.
If you are interested in AAT for your child, please speak with a member of your care team to learn more.
Rehabilitation (rehab) facility dogs support therapy sessions across multiple areas, including:
- Inpatient and outpatient gyms
- Specialized sessions in the NICU for tummy time and sensory visits
- Speech and feeding therapy spaces
- Various inpatient units that partner with acute care therapists
A rehab facility dog works alongside the therapist to motivate patients to engage in their daily therapies. Sessions may include structured activities, such as obstacle courses, bowling, tic-tac-toe, walking, fetch and other tasks that make therapy more enjoyable and effective. Patients are encouraged to give cues, practice communication skills and interact with the dog in ways that support their therapeutic goals.
Pictured: Lisa and Checkers
Together with a certified Child Life specialist, Child Life facility dogs play a vital role in supporting patients and families during some of their most difficult experiences in the hospital.
A Child Life facility dog’s primary role is to promote positive coping throughout hospitalization by:
- Assisting with preparation and education about medical procedures
- Building therapeutic connections
- Offering emotional support
- Using play to help reduce stress and anxiety
These dogs are often involved when patients have a hard time engaging with the care team. The dog helps create a safe and comforting environment. Their calming presence can ease fears, foster trust, and ensure children feel seen, heard and supported.
Pictured: Breanna and Sparky
