By PT | Aladina Foundation
The moment a therapy dog walks into a hospital room, something extraordinary happens—faces light up, stress eases, and for a little while, illness takes a back seat. That’s the heart of the Aladina Foundation’s Pet Therapy Program.
What began in two hospitals—Gregorio Marañón in Madrid and Virgen del Rocío in Seville—has grown thanks to our collaboration with the Perros Azules Association. Today, our dogs bring hope and comfort not only to these centers but also to Vithas and Clínico Hospitals in Valencia, Quirón Hospital in Pozuelo, and the Pediatric Palliative Care Unit at Niño Jesús Hospital in Madrid. Six hospitals now open their doors to this unique therapy, offering children more than medical treatment: they give them moments of joy and connection.
Since January 2022, the program has also reached children in palliative care, both at home and in hospital.
Impact in Action
In 2023, 553 children and adolescents experienced the comfort of pet therapy through 223 sessions. Behind each number is a story of a child who smiled again, who found relief in the middle of treatment, who felt less alone.
Why It Matters
Expanding the program to six hospitals has been a milestone, but the true success lies in the transformations we see. Therapy dogs help children communicate, reduce their anxiety, and find joy in the toughest moments. These small but powerful changes make an enormous difference in their emotional resilience.
The Road Ahead
Of course, growth comes with challenges—resources, logistics, and the need to expand responsibly. That’s why we continue strengthening partnerships and building new ones, ensuring that this work remains sustainable.
Looking to 2025 and beyond, our dream is clear: to bring the love, comfort, and healing touch of therapy dogs to even more hospitals and homes. Because every child facing cancer deserves not only the best medical care, but also the light, warmth, and unconditional affection that only a loyal four-legged friend can provide.
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