CHESAPEAKE, Va. — After a three-year hiatus due to heightened COVID protocols, Chesapeake Regional Medical Center is once again hosting The Welcome Waggers!
The group of volunteer handlers and their certified therapy dogs are back to provide companionship and help improve the emotional well-being of people throughout the hospital.
“Our beloved Welcome Waggers provide comfort and enjoyment to patients, their family members and our staff,” says Anne Crow, Director of Volunteer Services. “They can be a great benefit to patients during hospitalization because a visit with a caring four-legged friend helps create a happy, healing environment and reduces anxiety and fatigue. Our patients and staff have been asking for these sweet dogs to return and we are thrilled to welcome them back!”
The program was halted in March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic began.
With restricted visitation policies, the dogs haven’t been allowed in patient rooms for over three years. Their gradual return began in May of 2022 when dogs were invited back for visits in the main lobby.
Volunteers and their dogs, certified by Therapy Dogs International, make short, in-room visits to patients who would benefit from their company.
Consult requests are simply entered into a patient’s electronic medical record.
The pups and their handlers visit nursing stations and waiting areas, and before visiting the hospital, Welcome Waggers are required to meet strict sanitation and safety measures.
Chesapeake Regional said they have enjoyed the innovative benefits of pet therapy for nearly 20 years, and welcome the pups back with excitement.
There are currently 10 pet therapy teams available to comfort those in need every day of the week, according to the hospital.
Community members interested in volunteering as a pet therapy team are encouraged to complete this application.
