First full-time facility dog joins USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital

By Casandra Andrews
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Patients and caregivers at USA Health Children’s & Women's Hospital have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new team member — one that happens to have a shiny black coat, a wagging tail and a special talent for bringing comfort during some of life's most challenging moments.

After sending out clues about the new staff member’s name last week, Rainier, the hospital’s first full-time facility dog, officially reported for duty on Monday, June 15. While her cuteness may be disarming, this pooch is a specially trained clinical canine that will work alongside clinical staff to support pediatric patients and their families throughout the hospital.

Unlike volunteers with Paws of Love, which can only visit for a few hours a week for socialization, facility dogs are integrated into daily hospital clinical operations and trained to assist healthcare teams in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient units.

Hospital leaders say the addition of a full-time hospital service dog is grounded in a growing body of research showing that animal-assisted interventions can help reduce anxiety, fear and emotional distress among children receiving medical care. The program is made possible by annual donations from Spirit of Children and Spirit Halloween Stores, a longtime hospital partner that helps fund projects within the Mapp Child & Family Life Program.

Studies show that interactions with certified hospital service dogs can help lower stress levels, improve cooperation with treatment, and provide alternative focus during difficult procedures. Researchers also have reported benefits for healthcare professionals, including improved morale, reduced stress and a greater sense of workplace well-being.

“Children don't always have the words to express what they're feeling when they're scared, anxious or in pain,” said Deborah Browning, MSN, RN, chief executive officer at Children’s & Women’s Hospital. "This program is about meeting patients where they are emotionally and providing another layer of compassionate care. Facility dogs can ease anxiety, encourage participation in treatment, and create moments of joy during difficult days. We are proud to welcome our newest team member and the comfort, connection and hope this program will bring to our patients, families and staff.”

Emma Bryson, a certified therapeutic recreation specialist, and Rainier will work together as a team. Bryson will serve as the dog’s primary handler. Brenda Maddox, a child life specialist, will serve as Rainier’s secondary handler. The team’s responsibilities will include working together with clinical staff to co-treat during medical procedures, physical and occupational therapy sessions, visiting inpatient units and providing emotional support for patients and families navigating complex medical situations.

The new facility dog completed more than a year of training before joining the Children’s & Women’s Hospital team in June. Working under the guidance of a certified handler, the team will follow strict health, safety and infection-prevention protocols established by the hospital and Canine Assistants, a canine service dog company based in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Kim Thompson-Yates, who leads the Mapp Child & Family Life Program, says this initiative reflects a broader commitment to family-centered care, recognizing that emotional well-being plays an important role in the healing process.