Elizabeth Guffey Chief Nursing Officer | Northeast Missouri Rural Health Network
Elizabeth Guffey Chief Nursing Officer | Northeast Missouri Rural Health Network
Northeast Regional Medical Center's therapy dog, Luna, participated in the Special Olympics Missouri State Summer Games in Kirksville, providing support to athletes. The Therapy Dog Program at NRMC has been operational since 2024 and aims to alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress among patients. Luna's presence at the event was intended to foster social interaction and support for the athletes.
Maci Arnold, Health and Wellness Manager for Special Olympics Missouri, stated, “Therapy dogs have been used during wellness events at Special Olympics competitions to provide emotional support and stress relief for the athletes on competition day.” Arnold noted that interactions with therapy dogs often leave athletes feeling more confident and ready to compete.
Cassie Geisendorfer, an NRMC employee and Luna's handler, remarked on the positive impact of Luna’s presence: “Many athletes enjoyed meeting Luna, from sitting with her and petting her to asking for pawshakes and high fives.” Geisendorfer expressed gratitude for being able to offer this service both to patients and athletes.
Luna is certified by Therapy Dogs International and follows strict protocols during hospital visits. Unlike service dogs trained for specific tasks under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), therapy dogs like Luna are trained to interact broadly with people in public spaces such as hospitals and schools.
Geisendorfer commented on the success of NRMC's Therapy Dog Program: “We’ve seen great success with the Therapy Dog Program at NRMC, with both patients and employees benefitting.”
NRMC plans to expand its Therapy Dog Program in the future.
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