Scientific studies have shown that interactions with therapy animals have incredible benefits such as lowered blood pressure, reduced pain, decreased anxiety, a significant increase in perceived energy levels and more. Twice each week, the foundation brings pet therapy teams into Summit Health Berkeley Heights (NJ) and Summit Health Florham Park (NJ) to interact with cancer patients. “The dogs are so relaxed and happy,” said Amy, a patient undergoing chemotherapy. “I love watching them with other people too; their faces just brighten.”
The therapy teams mingle with patients undergoing chemotherapy infusions and sniff out additional waiting areas to cozy up to patients throughout the center. Research has even shown that pet therapy also benefits caregivers, as well as the hospital nursing staff. “Watching someone in pain smile when they see the therapy dog enter the room is priceless,” explained Dr. Gurubhagavatula, SH Oncologist. “Anyone dealing with cancer deserves all the extra care and comfort we can give them.”
