Therapy dog brings calm to Veteran in crisis at West Palm Beach VA

WEST PALM BEACH – In a moment of intense anxiety for a young Veteran in the emergency department, 28 seconds of quiet companionship made a profound difference. Honey, a therapy dog volunteer, and her handler Barbara Romano, provided a calming presence that allowed clinicians to deliver urgent care.

The incident unfolded recently at the Thomas H. Corey VA Medical Center. The Veteran was struggling to remain calm, hindering the medical team's ability to treat him. Romano and Honey, part of the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System's volunteer therapy dog program, were called to assist.

Honey, a gentle presence on four paws, climbed onto the Veteran's hospital bed and stayed by his side. Within 28 seconds, Romano observed a decrease in the Veteran's heart rate and blood pressure. As the dog remained quietly with him, the Veteran began to speak about his military service, his anxiety eased, and the medical team could proceed with his care.

For Romano, this experience was a powerful reminder of the impact of small gestures. She began volunteering with therapy dogs to honor her father, a Navy Veteran, who found comfort and companionship in dogs throughout his life. "I saw how having dogs around helped," Romano said.

Now, she and Honey bring that same comfort to Veterans at the VA medical center. Their visits are part of a broader initiative to help Veterans feel more at ease during their medical care. Research indicates that therapy dog visits can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve mood, and encourage social interaction. While not a replacement for medical treatment, these programs complement healthcare teams by fostering trust and connection.

Volunteer dog teams across the medical center visit various units, clinics, and waiting areas. Sometimes they initiate conversations, offer a welcome distraction, or simply provide quiet support. For Romano, each visit is also a tribute to her father. "Now Honey and I have the opportunity to give that same comfort to other Veterans," she said.