UW Health revives ‘Caring Canines’ program, seeks volunteers

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — UW Health has revived its “Caring Canines” program and is searching for new volunteers.

The program was first started in 2010, allowing local residents to volunteer their dogs to visit patients at the hospital, with organizers saying dogs bring a special comfort to patients and staff.

It was put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been proven that dog visits are more beneficial than human visits. Just petting the dog, being with the dog, talking to the dog, is just so beneficial to patients as well as our staff,” said guest services manager Shelley Anderson-Beatty.

“Gizmo” is the first dog of the new class of volunteers.

UW Health said it is looking for as many volunteers as it can get. Dogs must be well-trained and obedient, friendly with other dogs, and cannot bark or whine.