Adult therapy dogs are making a return UC Davis Medical Center For the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The volunteer pet therapy program has been on hold for three years, but now CARE project at UC Davis Health is pleased to announce the creation of the Canine CARE program.
Jade, Jimmy and Phil are the three new furry, four-legged volunteers who will serve as Canine CARE’s therapy dogs. The program provides canine visits to adults at the bedside to help patients manage their hospitalization and provide motivation for treatment.
Canine CARE consists of Pets help us relax (PHUR) and Canine Companion for Independence (CCI) volunteer dogs and handlers. All have been verified by volunteer services and rated to be in the hospital environment.
“Interaction with animals can help reduce stress and bring back fond memories for many people,” said Katie Lorain, director of creative arts and recreational therapy at the CARE Project at UC Davis Health. “We are pleased to be able to offer this level of comfort and support to our adult patients.”
Meet Jimmy, Jade and Phil
Jimmy, an 8-year-old golden retriever, was certified as a therapy dog by the CCI in 2022. His dog handler, Kirstin, has been breeding service dogs since 2002 and volunteers in animal-assisted therapy programs.
Jade, a 7-year-old Black Labrador, is a retired breeder for CCI. Your caretaker, Mary, has been providing pet therapy for 15 years in a variety of settings from law enforcement to schools and hospitals.
Phil is a 7 year old Golden Retriever/Lab mix. His supervisor, Rachel, started as a PHUR volunteer in 1994. Her goal with each visit is to provide a different day for UC Davis staff and patients through interaction with Phil.
“I’ve seen dogs work their way into the hearts and souls of many people over the years, and that’s why I continue to volunteer,” Rachel said.
To donate to the CARE Project program, visit The online donation page of the CARE project. To register as a volunteer for the CARE project, please contact Katie Lorain at klorain@ucdavis.edu.
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