(Michigan City, IN) - A certified therapy dog is now working at the hospital just outside Michigan City.

 

The one year old chocolate lab is at Franciscan Health to provide comfort to patients, visitors and staff. The dog is also there for security purposes, if necessary.

 

Hospital security officer Doug Samuelson, was once a K-9 handler for Michigan City Police, said therapy dogs are also proven to be a morale booster.

 

“We’re bringing something to the community that’s going to enrich our community, make our community better, safer and just a better place to come,” he said.

 

The hospital brought in the therapy dog at the recommendation of Samuelson, who knows first- hand the proven benefits of such animals during his 14 years as a dog handler before retiring from the police department.

 

Samuelson is the handler of the dog, Oaken.

 

Jill Nygren, vice president of clinical support services for Franciscan Health Michigan City, backed the project from its inception. Nygren said Oaken is “part of our care team.”

 

“He’ll help support patients who are going through stressful, difficult, challenging times in their lives and bring another level of comfort and support and caring to help with the healing process,” Nygren said.

 

Oaken will live with Samuelson in his off hours, much like a police K9 does with its handler.

 

“In the end, everyone here will know his name,” Samuelson said. “They may not know mine, but they’ll know his.”