Sloppy, wet kisses are back at Cox Medical Center Branson.
The medical center has announced the return of their two pet therapy dogs after a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Choppy and Molly returned for a ‘sniff’ this week before returning to work helping patients and staff at the facility.
“We are thrilled to have pet therapy back for our patients,” Stacey Ferrell, patient experience consultant at Cox Branson, said in a statement. “Bedside pets can reduce anxiety and stress, isolation and loneliness, while improving mood. They provide a welcome distraction and can really help patients in their healing process.
Choppy and Molly are a pair of golden retrievers who will visit rooms, greet guests in patient waiting rooms and provide cuddle time for any staff member who may be overwhelmed during the day.
“Dogs just know when you need company,” one outpatient center patient said after visiting Choppy. “I think they might be the best medicine of all.”
The staff was so happy to see the return of the canine joy givers that they stopped their rounds for a quick snuggle and smooch.
“I needed those puppy kisses today!” Surgical Services staff member Danna Edgeworth said after her visit with the dynamic duo.
