‘Pawty’ Held to Celebrate Goldie’s First Day at Work

Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital recently held a ‘Pawty’ for staff and patients to celebrate the newest therapy dog, Golden ‘Goldie’ Delicious, on his first official day at work. Goldie will join Freedom as the second animal-assisted therapy pup serving the children’s hospital and the sixth actively working across Memorial Healthcare System locations.

These dogs provide comfort to patients, families, and staff by offering hugs, paws, and smiles. Prior to starting, Goldie underwent two years of training with the nonprofit Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities.

Goldie is aided by his special nature, allowing him to connect with patients and staff. Ronda Hough, vice president and chief advanced practice officer, who is also Goldie 's home handler, spoke about his ability to tailor his approach to the needs of the patients he spends time with. When asked about Goldie 's personality, Ronda recalled his first day at home: “Goldie is a very inquisitive dog. On his first day, he found all his new toys as well as the best window spots to look out of.”

The animal assisted therapy program at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital is made possible by the generosity of Craig Zinn Automotive Group’s (CZAG) President and CEO, Craig Zinn, who established an endowment of $500,000 to fund the program.

Also in attendance was Caitlin Stella, Children’s Hospital CEO, who emphasized the ‘beauty’ of the animal-assisted therapy program. Caitlin said, “It provides those in our care with fun, comfort, and familiarity.” When discussing the impact the dogs have on staff, Caitlin added, “The staff derive just as much enjoyment from engaging with the dogs. They tend to show up on days when you need them most. It’s a special program; animals can connect with people in a way that even other people can’t.”

Caitlin emphasized the importance of the dogs in patient care, stating, “They are integral to care delivery. Play translates into therapy; it encourages kids to get up, run, play, and laugh.”