Knoxville Hospital and Clinics offers a pet therapy program to help patients in recovery or admitted to the hospital.

With next week being National Volunteer Week, Knoxville Hospital and Clinics wants to thank all those who bring their pets in to serve as therapy for patients. Volunteers bring their dogs in to visit with all the patients who want to visit with the dogs, and Activity Leader at KHC Lynda DeBold tells KNIA/KRLS News there is an instant effect on the patient once a therapy dog enters the room as they get flooded with memories of having a dog as a child, or seeing a friends dog, or having one for their children, as nearly everyone has had great experiences with dogs.

DeBold also said that a dog needs the right temperament to be chosen as a therapy dog, and at the minimum requires obedience training, have updated shots, and preferably completing the international therapy program. For more information on how to get your dog qualified as a therapy dog, call Knoxville Hospital and Clinics at (641) 842-2151 and ask for Activity Leader Lynda DeBold.