In the heart of Barcelona’s Hospital del Mar, an extraordinary scene unfolds: amidst the sterile walls and hushed tones of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a touch of warmth and companionship emerges in the form of therapy dogs. These furry friends, named Vida and Lou, have become beacons of hope and comfort for patients battling critical illnesses, offering a welcome respite from the physical and emotional challenges they face.
One such patient, Joel Bueno, a 34-year-old man battling a blood clot, was overwhelmed with emotion upon encountering Vida and Lou. “It’s great to have someone that loves you more than anything else in the world,” he expressed, his voice choked with gratitude. The unconditional love and affection radiated by these canine companions evoked memories of his beloved pet at home, momentarily lifting his spirits amidst the arduous journey of recovery.
This heartwarming initiative is a testament to the transformative power of animal-assisted therapy. Spearheaded by a collaboration between Hospital del Mar and the Affinity Foundation, an organization specializing in pet therapy, the program aims to enhance the emotional well-being of ICU patients.
Twice a week, patients receive 15-20 minute visits from Vida and Lou, their presence creating a palpable shift in the atmosphere. The gentle nuzzles, playful interactions, and unwavering companionship offered by these canine companions provide a much-needed source of comfort and distraction, alleviating stress and anxiety.
To assess the impact of this program, researchers are conducting saliva tests on patients before and after their interactions with the therapy dogs. These tests aim to measure changes in stress-related hormones like cortisol and well-being-promoting hormones like oxytocin and serotonin.
Dr. Lucia Picasso, an ICU physician at Hospital del Mar, observes, “For now, it seems to us that there’s a benefit for patients.” The program’s potential to positively impact patients’ emotional states is evident in the smiles, relaxed expressions, and expressions of gratitude shared by those who have been touched by Vida and Lou’s presence.
Maribel Vila, the project leader from the Affinity Foundation, highlights the program’s positive impact extends beyond the patients. “The presence of the dogs also creates a more positive environment for the ICU staff,” she shares, noting that the opportunity to interact with these gentle creatures brings joy and a sense of calm to their demanding work environment.
The mere anticipation of the dogs’ visits serves as a morale booster for patients, as Vila aptly observes, “Just the thought that some dogs might pop by for a visit is an immediate morale boost.”
The success of this program in Hospital del Mar serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the profound impact that animal-assisted therapy can have on the emotional well-being of individuals facing challenging health situations. It is a testament to the unwavering bond between humans and animals, a bond that transcends language and physical limitations, offering solace, comfort, and a glimmer of joy amidst the darkest of times.