For years Nationwide Children’s Hospital has used therapy and facility dogs to bring joy and help patients and their families navigate complex medical and behavioral health journeys. These dogs are an important part of NCH – therapy dogs create a calm and positive atmosphere for patients, families, and staff, while facility dogs provide motivation and therapeutic support when traditional treatments have not been as effective. For many of the patients here, including 8-year-old Macie Taylor, these dogs have played an important role in achieving best outcomes.

When she was just 1-year-old, Macie was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. And recently, due to spasticity in her left leg, Macie underwent SDR (Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy) surgery to reduce that tightness. However, the recovery journey wasn’t easy. Macie started out in a wheelchair and slowly had to relearn some of her motor skills, including walking. That’s where Beck, NCH’s golden retriever facility dog, fits into the story. Beck played a vital role in Macie’s rehab therapy. To motivate and encourage Macie in her treatment plan, Beck was by her side – going on walks with her in the hallways, helping her learn to balance through activities like fetch, and even played hide and seek. Along with the physical benefits, Beck was also there to give Macie a sense of calm and joy during her stay. And after a few weeks of hard work and motivation from Beck, Macie was able to walk out of the hospital doors – all on her own!

To help impact more patients like Macie, NCH is expanding its canine program to create Butterfly Paws. If you are interested in volunteering, donating, or if you would like to get more information on the program please visit: bit.ly/3veeJ3b

Learn more about our Rehabilitation Program: bit.ly/3SWrtmH

Therapeutic Recreation services at NCH: bit.ly/3UZz86A