Tail Wags and Smiles: Dog Therapy Brings Healing to Romanian Hospitals

Ilfov Hospitals Embrace Dog Therapy to Soothe Patients' Mental Health Ilfov, Romania – In a heartwarming initiative, hospitals in Ilfov, Romania, are utilizing dog therapy to improve the emotional well-being of their patients. The project, "Have Care of You," involves specially trained dogs from the Clubul Cainilor Utilitari that visit patients for sessions. "Each dog undergoes six months to a year of training before participating," explains Cristian Anchel, a canine instructor. The dogs' presence offers comfort and unconditional acceptance, and the results have been remarkable. Valentina Petrache, a social worker, shares, "Patients' moods improve noticeably; they smile and eagerly await the next therapy session." The project, initiated by the Ilfov County Council, aims to expand to more hospitals. The positive emotional impact of these sessions is evident, offering a unique and effective form of therapeutic intervention.