FARGO, N.D. — Sometimes it’s the littlest things that can bring us the most joy and laughter. This is particularly true at Sanford Children’s Hospital in Fargo, where a favorite volunteer is a 6-pound, pet therapy puppy named Norman.
Norman and his handler, Tina Erickson, have been visiting Sanford Children’s Hospital for years to provide pet therapy for the kids. Their visits bring joy to children during a stressful and difficult time.
Norman is one of only two certified therapy dogs who visits Sanford Health in Fargo. He proudly wears his official volunteer badge, even though it is almost as big as him. He also dons a kid-friendly character bow tie. Each week, he sports a different bow tie with superheroes, princesses or cartoon favorites. As a team, Norman and Tina have one goal: put smiles on faces.
Normalizing the hospital experience
Child life specialist Lorri Ferguson said Norman does just that – brings smiles to children who need some extra happiness in their life. She also said the pet therapy program provides a sense of normalization for the kids. The children can’t wait to see him when he comes prancing into their room or Cully’s Kids Cabin.
This is especially true for some of the regulars who Norman takes the time to visit, like 13-year-old Haley. Her face lights up at the sight of the bow-tie wearing Yorkie. Norman’s wagging tail confirms that he, too, looks forward to this time together.
Norman’s visits have become so regular that he is familiar with the visitation schedule to his friends on the children’s floor. “He just loves it. He gets so sad when we don’t come,” Erickson said. Petting an animal can be so therapeutic during difficult times, and little Norman is happy to be on the receiving end of some affection from his favorite friends at Sanford Children’s Hospital.
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Posted In Children's, Health Information
