CROWN POINT, Indiana - With a philosophy of "man's best friend also can be a healer," Franciscan Health Crown Point launched a pet therapy program on Dec. 16, aimed at making patients’ stays more comfortable, with a dose of fun.

The initiative kicked off in the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago location at the hospital and immediately brought smiles to those who met the canine helpers for the first time.

Shown is the all-volunteer pet therapy team, from left, Julie Canady, program coordinator; Pamela Stanberry, of St. John, and her dog, Bufflyn; Noel Collins, of Schererville, and Lou; Jackie Wood, of Cedar Lake, and Zena; Chris Tebben, of Hebron, and Cambree; and Barb Orliz, of Cedar Lake, and Blackjack.

Studies have shown a decrease in stress levels and in blood pressure for people visited by such dogs.

For more information, call Canady at (219) 613-6640.



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Robert Blaszkiewicz
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