Therapy dog visits in an urgent care facility offer multiple benefits for patients and staff. For patients, the presence of a friendly dog can help reduce anxiety and stress, making their visit less daunting. For example, a child receiving stitches or an adult awaiting test results may feel more at ease with a therapy dog by their side. The calming presence of a dog can also provide a pleasant distraction from pain or discomfort.

For staff, therapy dogs provide a brief but meaningful respite from their fast-paced work environment. A quick  interaction with a dog can help reduce stress, boost morale, and improve overall job satisfaction. For instance, a nurse might find a few moments with a therapy dog refreshing before attending to the next patient. Overall, therapy dog visits contribute to a supportive and compassionate atmosphere in urgent care settings.