MUSC given 2 in-residence service dogs to help care for patients

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — Some new dogs with jobs will be playing a very important role with patient care at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC).

MUSC was given two in-residence service dogs through the Joy in Childhood Foundation's Dogs For Joy Program.

The program, supported by Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins, was launched in 2018 with the goal of placing specialized in-residence dogs as full-time members of children's hospital care teams. Some tasks the animals can help with include teaching children how to take pills, keeping kids calm during medical interventions and more.

“We have found that these are truly dogs for joy. In-residence service dogs serve as ‘therapeutic agents’ and help maintain a positive outlook during a hospital stay. The simple act of patting a dog produces a relaxation response, releases calming endorphins, lowers blood pressure, and can even help lower overall physical pain. Dogs bring joy to all, and help the healing process,” said Carolyn Donohue, the Executive Director of Nursing for Children’s and Women’s Services at MUSC.

“When kids face serious illness, it robs them of the simple joys of childhood. The Joy in Childhood Foundation is always seeking new ways to help kids feel like kids, even on their most difficult days. We are proud to partner with The Medical University of South Carolina – one of the best children’s hospitals in the nation -- to bring joy to pediatric patients with animal-assisted therapy as part of their treatment,” explained Kari McHugh, Executive Director of the Joy in Childhood Foundation.

Eight other hospitals nationwide successfully submitted grant proposals for the canines.

The special dogs were welcomed with a party at MUSC on Wednesday, complete with dog-themed crafts, a bagel and coffee bar and a giant box of dog supplies. Current service dogs were in attendance to help show others what they do in the hospital.