Patients admitted to the hospital for extended stays due to complications during pregnancy have their days brightened by furry friends who visit the Duke University Hospital antepartum (AP) unit every Friday.
"I’d like to thank our nursing staff, nursing leadership, and L&D APP team for continuing to improve the AP patient experience on our unit. From group craft projects, to music, to group prenatal care, and now to pets," said Chad Grotegut, MD.
Research shows that animal-assisted therapy, or pet therapy, is an effective form of psychotherapy intervention that reduces stress and depression. It also provides a sense of companionship that can combat feelings of isolation. The relaxation and feelings of connection that people feel with an animal — in this case a dog — facilitate healing and rehabilitation.