Therapy dog offers calm in crisis at West Palm Beach VA

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — In the midst of a crisis, a therapy dog named Honey provided a moment of profound calm, helping a young Veteran receive urgent care at the West Palm Beach VA Healthcare System.

The incident unfolded in the emergency department when a Veteran was struggling to remain calm, making it difficult for clinicians to administer necessary treatment. Barbara Romano, a volunteer with her therapy dog Honey, was called to assist.

Within 28 seconds of Honey climbing onto the Veteran's hospital bed and resting beside him, his heart rate and blood pressure decreased. The Veteran then began speaking about his military service, his anxiety eased, and clinicians were able to provide the care he needed.

Romano, who volunteers with Honey, was inspired to do so in honor of her father, a Navy Veteran. She witnessed firsthand the comfort and companionship dogs provided him throughout his life.

"I saw how having dogs around helped," Romano said. "Now Honey and I have the opportunity to give that same comfort to other Veterans."

Honey's visits are part of a broader initiative at the Thomas H. Corey VA Medical Center to help Veterans feel more at ease. Research indicates that therapy dog visits can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve mood, and encourage social interaction. While therapy dogs are not a substitute for medical treatment, they complement healthcare teams by fostering trust and connection.

Volunteer dog teams regularly visit inpatient units, clinics, and waiting areas across the medical center, sometimes sparking conversations, providing distractions, or simply offering quiet companionship.

"Sometimes, changing someone’s day doesn’t require many words. Sometimes, it only takes 28 seconds of quiet company," Romano reflected.