Pet Therapy at Nyack Hospital is currently only available to patients on the Pediatric unit, with plans to expand the program to patients on other units in the coming months. Nyack Hospital's exclusive furry visitor, Flo, is appropriately nicknamed "Florence Nightingale" for her innate ability to make children and adults alike feel better.  According to owner/handler Louise Newsome, "Flo is a wonderful companion to people in the hospital.   She is certified by Therapy Dogs International, and her presence brings smiles to many patients."

In the future, Nyack Hospital plans to add more dogs to the visiting roster that are certified through an accredited agency such as Therapy Dogs International or Delta Society.

All certified dogs are vigorously trained, thoroughly evaluated and screened both behaviorally and physically.  Patients, who must schedule a visit from one of the dogs in advance, must be free of pet allergies, medically cleared and express a desire for a visit. 

For further information about the Pet Pals Program at Nyack Hospital, please call The Volunteer Office at 845.348.2181.

Nyack Hospital

Nyack Hospital is a 375-bed community acute care medical and surgical hospital located in Rockland County, NY.  Founded in 1895, it is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System. For additional information, please visit our web site at www.nyackhospital.org.