The presence of dogs in hospital settings is increasingly recognized for its potential to aid healing and comfort. Across societies, there has been a notable shift toward embracing animal-assisted approaches as a legitimate complement to medical care, reflecting a broader concern for patient well‑being and emotional health during treatment and recovery.
Yet, despite supportive research and growing public interest, many hospital administrators and policy makers still approach animal visits with caution. There are concerns about hygiene, safety, allergies, and the logistics of everyday hospital operations. That said, when properly organized, therapy dog programs offer tangible benefits: lowered stress for patients, improved mood among visitors and staff, and a calmer, more human atmosphere in wards and waiting areas. These effects have been documented in several clinical observations and observational studies, and they resonate with the lived experiences of those who interact with animals during hospitalization.
Throughout Europe and beyond, there have been notable milestones. In the eighties, a pioneering program at a prominent UK hospital demonstrated that canine visitation could brighten the experience of first-time admitted patients, yielding visible improvements in morale among both patients and healthcare professionals. The simple, daily presence of a calm, friendly dog can break the routine of hospital life, offering moments of normalcy and emotional support that words alone cannot supply. Such findings encouraged clinicians and administrators to consider broader adoption where safety and welfare standards are met. The positive reaction from families and care teams underscored the potential for therapy dogs to contribute to a more humane environment in even high‑pressure clinical settings.
Nearby, Spanish institutions such as the Ibiza hospital, the San Joan de Déu maternity center in Barcelona, and the Rey Juan Carlos Hospital in Móstoles have integrated canine visits as part of carefully designed care plans. These programs are implemented after rigorous health and hygiene checks and serve multiple purposes. They can act as preventive measures to maintain quality of life during extended stays, assist children with chronic or long‑term hospitalization in coping with their treatment, and provide opportunities for patients to reconnect with their own pets when feasible. In several cases, animal presence is woven into comprehensive care models that aim to reduce anxiety, promote engagement, and support rehabilitation goals, while ensuring infection control and safety standards are upheld.
It is widely recognized today that contact with animals can positively influence physical and emotional health — from heart rate and blood pressure to mood and motivation — even in seriously ill or recovering individuals. Medical researchers have documented these associations, though the exact mechanisms continue to be explored. The core takeaway is clear: animals can act as catalysts for well‑being, complementing medical treatment without replacing it. Hospitals and care facilities are increasingly considering how animal‑assisted interventions fit into broader patient‑centered care plans, and many programs report improved satisfaction and perceived quality of care among patients and staff alike.
As this trend grows, it becomes essential for health authorities and lawmakers to establish clear, practical regulations and operational protocols. Such guidelines should cover selection and training of therapy dogs, infection control measures, handler responsibilities, patient eligibility, and ethical considerations for animals involved in medical settings. A thoughtful framework can minimize risks, maximize benefits, and promote consistent implementation across institutions. The goal is not to substitute medical treatment but to complement it with compassionate, evidence-informed support that respects the needs of patients, families, and healthcare teams.