By Lindsay Hughes
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This story was originally featured in the Spring 2025 edition of the USA Health magazine.
On a weekday afternoon, you might spot Karl the cat wearing a harness while confidently trotting down the hall of University Hospital, or Emmie the golden retriever excitedly wagging her tail in the elevator at Children’s & Women’s Hospital. They’re on their way to visit patients as part of USA Health’s pet therapy program.
In order to volunteer, the animals and their handlers go through special education and training with Pet Partners. Once registered, the teams are deployed in the hospitals, where they bring joy, comfort and unconditional love to patients of all ages.
Research shows music therapy can improve a child’s hospital experiences by reducing anxiety, pain, and emotional distress while supporting coping and family engagement.
"We're proud to be recognized today, but we're even more focused on tomorrow," said Rick Metzger, CEO of USA Health Providence Hospital. "We'll continue investing in our people, expanding access to advanced care, embracing innovation and strengthening our partnerships.”
A graduate of the University of South Alabama, he previously worked as a photojournalist in television news where he was named 2019 Photojournalist of the Year by the Alabama Broadcasters Association.
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