Dog Therapy

Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center has nearly 40 therapy dogs, who can help brighten the days of patients and their families.

All of our dogs go through extensive checks and training.

They all have wonderful temperaments, are obedient, have the ability to learn and are well groomed. They readily accept strangers, sit still amidst distractions and not react adversely to other dogs. They undergo up to 12 months of extensive training and receive certification by the Arizona Department of Health Services.

While the dogs are the "stars'' of our program, a corps of volunteers serve as the pets' "managers" and coordinate their schedules. They, too, are an important part of the success story.