By Maria Villen | Digital Manager
Aladina Foundation Report on Pet Therapy for Children with Cancer
Program Description
Few things bring as much joy and excitement to hospitals as the arrival of our four-legged companions! The Aladina Foundation’s Pet Therapy Program was initially launched at Gregorio Marañón Hospital in Madrid and Virgen del Rocío Hospital in Seville, in collaboration with the Perros Azules Association. Over time, it expanded to include Vithas Hospital and Clínico Hospital in Valencia, and more recently, the Quirón Hospital in Pozuelo and the Pediatric Palliative Care Unit at Niño Jesús Hospital in Madrid. Currently, pet therapy sessions are offered across six hospitals, bringing comfort and smiles to many young patients.
Since January 2022, the program has also been extended to reach children receiving palliative care both at home and in specialized hospital units. Throughout the pandemic and beyond, we have maintained the continuity of these sessions, combining in-person and virtual formats to ensure that children continue to experience the therapeutic benefits of interaction with therapy dogs.
Program Impact
During 2023, a total of 553 children and adolescents benefited from pet therapy sessions. In that period, 223 therapy sessions were conducted, underscoring the extensive reach and emotional impact of the program.
Results and Achievements
The expansion of the Pet Therapy Program to six hospitals marks a significant achievement, allowing us to provide vital emotional support to a growing number of pediatric oncology patients. The therapeutic interactions with the dogs have consistently proven to enhance emotional well-being, promote communication skills, and bring moments of happiness and relief to children undergoing intense medical treatments.
Challenges and Solutions
Our main challenges continue to be securing sufficient resources to support the program's growth and navigating the logistical complexities involved in extending services to additional hospitals. To overcome these challenges, we have strengthened our collaboration with trusted therapy providers and continue building new partnerships to broaden the program's reach efficiently and sustainably.
Future Steps
Looking forward to 2025 and beyond, the Aladina Foundation is committed to expanding our Pet Therapy Program even further. We aim to introduce these impactful sessions to additional hospitals across the region, ensuring that more children facing cancer can experience the profound joy, comfort, and emotional healing that only a loyal therapy dog can provide.
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