Girona Hospital's 'Hospigos' Project: Bringing Comfort to Patients Through Animal Companionship

Girona Hospital Launches 'Hospigos' Project: Reuniting Patients with Their Pets Hospital Santa Caterina in Girona, Spain, has implemented a pioneering program called "Hospigos" (Hospital + Dogs) to improve the quality of life for patients facing end-of-life care or uncertain prognoses. The program allows patients to be reunited with their beloved pets, providing comfort and emotional support during a challenging time. A strict veterinary protocol ensures the safety and hygiene of both patients and animals. "It's incredibly moving to see the joy on the faces of our patients when they are reunited with their pets," said a hospital spokesperson. "This initiative is a testament to the humanizing power of animal companionship." The video shows one such heartwarming reunion between a patient and his dog, Perla. The patient, Rafael, who has been hospitalized for over three months, is visibly comforted by the presence of his dog. The initiative has been praised by experts as a valuable addition to palliative care, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of animal interaction. The Hospigos project is a beacon of hope and compassion, demonstrating the positive impact of integrating animal-assisted therapy into hospital settings. It shows the hospital's commitment to holistic patient care, extending beyond medical treatment to encompass the emotional and psychological well-being of those in their care.