While all dogs have an inherent ability to make us smile, therapy dogs are a special group.
They possess certain personality characteristics that give them the ability to roam a hospital facility without being thrown off by machinery, strangers, electronic beeping or rolling carts. They can resist the urge to run down a wide-open hall, even if they really, really want to. They can never get enough pets from humans.
We like to think the dogs who volunteer with Endeavor Health’s Animal-Assisted Therapy program are especially wonderful, as they make their rounds offering warm pets and wet noses, beaming a ray of sunshine into each patient’s room they visit.
Get to know some of our very good boys and girls!
Hunter
Breed: Golden Retriever
Birthday: Oct. 29, 2020
Weight: 94 pounds
Owner: Kimberly
Hunter is a 4-legged con artist. He’s a pro at making human friends and swiping socks. His favorite trick? Convincing the family he deserves a second dinner — sneaky genius! He also insists on having his own seat at the dinner table, because obviously. He’s a loyal shadow.
Junie
Breed: Sheepadoodle
Birthday: March 14, 2019
Weight: 75 pounds
Owner: Darcy
Junie was born black and white and will eventually fade into gray as she ages. She is playful, intelligent and fun-loving. She is very cuddly and loves to crawl up in your lap. She loves to dance and play ball.
KoKo
Breed: Havanese
Birthday: June 17, 2023
Weight: 10 pounds
Owner: Mia
KoKo is an affectionate and bright companion. She is gentle, playful, and good with children. KoKo is very friendly to strangers and to other pets. She is intuitive and very responsive to affectionate hugs and kisses.
Madison
Breed: English Labrador
Birthday: Dec. 2, 2021
Weight: 70 pounds
Owner: Amy
Madi was born with an old soul. She is laid back and enjoys her naps. She is a lover of all of her plush toys and always has one in her mouth when greeting you. Socks are her second favorite to carry. Madison was named after one of her family’s favorites, the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
Minnie
Breed: Mini Bernedoodle
Birthday: April 7, 2023
Weight: 30 pounds
Owner: Gretchen
Minnie is a happy and sweet girl who is full of energy. She loves to run, prance and chase squirrels. When she’s not making new friends at the hospital, she enjoys being with her family and camping. Regardless of where you meet her, she is certain to make your day a bit brighter with her smile.
Pete
Breed: Golden Retriever
Birthday: April 9, 2022
Weight: 68 pounds
Owner: Tracy
Pete is a sweet boy who loves making new friends. He enjoys swimming at his grandparents’ lake, chasing tennis balls and playing tug of war. He lives in the city and knows exactly which storefronts have treats. He brings his mom and local dog walkers to these spots daily. His favorite foods are peanut butter, pup cups and cheese.
Remi
Breed: Poodle
Birthday: March 31, 2023
Weight: 45 pounds
Owner: Mike
Remi is a very happy, sweet and friendly girl with lots of energy. She is very athletic. She loves everyone she meets and is especially excited to meet children. She loves to play ball and is a great companion. She likes to go everywhere with her owner and make new friends, both 2-legged and 4-legged.
Samson
Breed: Golden Retriever
Birthday: Aug. 7, 2017
Weight: 65 pounds
Owner: Mari
Samson is a happy and sweet boy who loves people of all ages. His two goals in life are to always be good and play fetch. When he is not making new friends on his visits, he loves playing with his Golden sister, Sailor. Sammy loves small children and is the best buddy to toddlers. Wherever Sammy goes he brings joy and smiles.
Tinker
Breed: Bernedoodle
Birthday: June 19, 2020
Weight: 74 pounds
Owner: Carol and Milt
Tinker is a happy, playful girl who is eager to make friends with everyone. When she is not making new friends at the hospital, she enjoys long walks, watching dogs on TV, playing with all her toys, and trying to get the neighborhood kids to pet her through the fence. She would love to meet you for a quick snuggle.
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