Facility dogs are expertly trained dogs who partner with a handler to care for pediatric patients at Children’s Hospital of Greenville Health System (GHS). GHS Children’s Hospital currently has three facility dogs: Kalle, Kenzie, and Vivitar (Vivi). They are all members of The Canine F.E.T.C.H. (Friends Encouraging Therapeutic Coping and Healing) Unit, Children’s Hospital’s animal-assisted therapy program for patients and their families.
One of the most valued qualities of a facility dog is the unconditional love and attention that they give to everyone with whom they interact. In a health care environment, activities such as grooming, feeding, snuggling and playing fetch with a facility dog can aid patients in medical rehabilitation and psychiatric programs.
Our dogs and trained handlers work as a team to provide comfort, support, and distraction to children during procedures and hospitalization.