Heart Health
Pet Therapy

The Heart Hospital of New Mexico now includes a pet therapy program in their list of patient services. Documented visits from therapy dogs have shown to provide "breakthrough" advances for some patients who were comatose, depressed, or incoherent. For those who miss their own pets, a visit from a furry friend may help speed recovery.

The program, which works with licensed pet therapy volunteers and their dogs from Southwest Canine Corps of Volunteers, provides patients and their families with a little cheer and support during their hospital stay. The 5-10 minute visits allow the patient to pet or hold the dog. Family, friends, and even the hospital staff also enjoy the uplifting visits, which offer a break from the emotional stress of the day.

All the dogs are specially trained, vaccinated, and groomed to adhere to stringent regulations. The volunteers are also trained in dog handling, hospital safety, and patient privacy.