Dogs As a Source of Comfort and Connection in Palliative Care
Time moves slow in a palliative care room. Movements are gentler, silences linger longer and every moment of presence matters. Some days, that presence can look a little different. A dog comes in quietly, looks around, then walks up with soothing calm.
The animal-assisted therapy program at the Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM) offers patients a much welcome moment of connection and care that goes beyond the strictly medical.
Simple moments that change everything
Dr. Richard Hovey, 67, associate professor at McGill’s Faculty of Dental Medicine, has been living with cancer for six years. When treatment no longer helped, he was moved to palliative care.
One morning, a knock on his door brought an unexpected visitor: a therapy dog. Richard didn’t think twice about inviting them in. Animals have always held a special place in his life, and seeing a dog instantly brings back precious memories. He feels like a weight has been lifted after every visit.
“Facing the end of your life can be a lot to bear, so anything that eases that burden is priceless. Dogs are such a stress reliever. There’s no better way to feel better.”
For Ariane, assistant head nurse in the Palliative Care unit, the benefits of animal-assisted therapy are undeniable.
“The end of life can often bring feelings of pain, anxiety and isolation. Animal-assisted therapy is one more tool, in addition to the usual medication. Animals give patients a break from their symptoms and provide them with a bit of tenderness. That comfort is so important.”
The presence of these friendly four-legged companions is a reminder that we can still ease the burden of palliative care patients and allow them to reminisce and feel supported, even in their most vulnerable moments.
Animal-assisted therapy at the CHUM is made possible thanks to the support of Beneva.
