The Pets at Duke program, offered through the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program, offers many benefits to our patients. Research shows that animal-assisted therapy, or pet therapy, is an effective form of psychotherapy intervention that reduces stress and depression. It also provides a sense of companionship that can combat feelings of isolation. The relaxation and feelings of connection that people feel with an animal -- in this case a dog -- facilitate healing and rehabilitation.
Therapy dogs reside with their owner and complete additional testing on-site before being accepted to the Pets at Duke team.
Pets at Duke is offered through the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program. This service is available at no charge thanks to the generosity of donors. Use this link to make a gift to the Pets at Duke program.