Therapy Dogs Return to Doctors Hospital of Manteca

Paws 4 Friends therapy dogs have returned to Doctors Hospital of Manteca after the program was paused due to COVID-19.

The dogs and their handlers make their way around the hospital visiting patients, visitors and employees. Therapy dogs are trained to provide affection and comfort to people in stressful situations. Scientific research has shown that interaction with animals can significantly improve a person’s physical and emotional health, proving beneficial in a hospital setting.

Paws 4 Friends is a therapy dog club that was founded in 2010. Members are registered and certified with the national nonprofit organization Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Paws 4 Friends includes a variety of people with the goal of providing therapy dog services to our community. Members are all volunteers. In addition to hospitals, Paws 4 Friends members also visit assisted living facilities, libraries, schools, child care centers, women’s shelters and more.