Children’s of Mississippi has welcomed an adorable furry friend as the hospital’s first facility dog.
Hollywood, a 67-pound male golden retriever, is embarking on a journey to bring joy and comfort to patients. Born and educated at Canine Assistants in Milton, Ga., Hollywood has been on the job at the state’s only children’s hospital since September 24.
According to a press release from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the newest Children’s of Mississippi team member can help stabilize blood pressure and reduce anxiety, pain, and fear.
“Hollywood isn’t just a dog – he’s a vital part of our Child Life team,” said Cara Williams, child life manager and Hollywood’s handler “He truly is the best dog. His demeanor is so calm, and the way he loves patients, families, and staff is something that can’t be replicated. He is so gentle and truly wants to be with people. He loves a good belly rub and will lean all the way in for a pet.”
Williams further added that Hollywood’s bedside manner can sometimes be the best form of medication for patients and their families.
“Hollywood meets patients where they are. He doesn’t expect anything from them and simply loves them,” the golden retriever’s handler said. “He allows them to be distracted from whatever is happening and gives them a sense of normalcy.”
Hospital facility dogs like Hollywood are similar to therapy dogs, experts say, but have the skills to react to the emotions of patients and their families and bring them a sense of calm. These dogs work with handlers throughout the day and go home with them at night.
Hollywood gets his name from the Hollywood Bowl since his litter’s naming inspiration was iconic music venues. His litter mates are named Fillmore, Red, Radio, Sydney, Bluebird, and Opry.
Before heading to the children’s hospital for a day of hospitality, Hollywood starts things off with a walk or a backyard game of fetch before breakfast. He then is brushed and takes a nap before it’s time to put smiles on the faces of young people and their families.
Once in the workplace, the friendly canine is sure to greet staff and patients as he heads up to his handler’s office. From there, Williams makes note of those who would benefit greatest from Hollywood’s warm presence.
“Having Hollywood simply adds an extra layer of goodness,” Williams said. “Everyone he meets or even just walks by smiles a little bigger. The reactions are priceless and have only been positive. Animals can reach people in a way that sometimes staff can’t. The experience here at Children’s will continue to be brighter with Hollywood here.”
Patients and their parents have especially raved about Hollywood, adding that the service dog brings about an air of glee to hospital stays and grueling recovery exercises that would otherwise be dreadful.
