DUBUQUE, IA – Ann Mentzer, a nurse at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, brings her therapy dog, Hope, the 130-pound Leonberger brightening patients’ days.
Inspired by the comfort a Leonberger brought to her father, Mentzer trained Hope to provide that same healing presence at the hospital.
Hope visits once or twice a month, offering emotional support to patients receiving treatment for cancer, behavioral health issues, and rehabilitation. As a certified therapy dog, she’s available for petting and hugs, providing comfort and a much-needed break from patients’ challenges.
Hope’s name, a reminder to “hold on, pain ends,” reflects the unconditional love she shares with everyone she meets. The hospital is even considering adding more therapy dogs to its program after seeing the positive impact Hope has had.
This is Hope the therapy dog, aka my new best friend 🐾❤️
— Kaelei Whitlatch (@KaeleiWhitlatch) November 20, 2024
Tune in this Friday on @iowasnewsnow at 5 and 6 for the full story of how Hope is bringing joy to patients and staff at @UnityPointDBQ! pic.twitter.com/P5LnU9XtGS
Source: cbs2iowa.com
