Medical Chief of Staff Doctor Robert Basilij wants to bring a different form of medicine to the hospital; dog therapy.
He says similar programs are used in area nursing homes with great success.
Doctor Basilij says dog therapy not only provides patients with joy and companionship, but there is also concrete medical merit behind it.
Doctor Basilij notes it has been well documented that having a furry pet is one of the best ways to extend one’s lifespan, even more effective than controlling cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Doctor Basilij feels a visit from a four legged friend may truly be the best form of medicine of all for some of the Hospital’s bedridden patients.
Doctor Basilij feels hospitals have become too sterile and need a little touch of humanity for patients unable to join the outside world.
The Hanover and District Hospital has a dog therapy policy in place, but it hasn’t been put into practice.
Doctor Basilij says it’s time to resurrect the program.
Patient and staff allergies will all be taken into account whenever a dog is brought into the hospital.
