Elmhurst Hospital Welcomes New Therapy Dog To Support Behavioral Health Patients

QUEENS, NY — NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst has welcomed Weasley, a professionally trained Labrador/Golden Retriever mix who will support patients and staff through the hospital’s new PAWS to HEAL program.

The two-year-old dog was provided by Canine Companions, a national nonprofit that breeds and trains assistance dogs and provides them at no cost to the people and organizations they serve.

Weasley will primarily work with patients on Elmhurst Hospital’s adult, adolescent and forensic inpatient behavioral health units, as well as participate in select outpatient groups. Sessions may focus on emotional regulation, anxiety reduction, socialization, communication, self-esteem and patient engagement.

Activities can include mindfulness exercises, creative arts and structured interactions that allow patients to work with Weasley using skills he has been trained to perform. A typical group session lasts about 30 to 45 minutes.

“Hospital pet therapy dogs can bring tremendous joy to patients, offering comfort, connection, play and engagement as part of the healing process," Elmhurst Hospital CEO Alina Moran, said.

"I am incredibly proud of our Behavioral Health team for the creativity and dedication they have shown in developing this program and finding new ways to support mental health in our community.”

Weasley is scheduled to work four days a week, visiting several behavioral health units each day with designated rest periods.

He will also make occasional appearances at the hospital’s Employee Wellness Center when his clinical schedule permits.

The therapy dog works under the supervision of his primary handler, Angelica Terepka, Elmhurst’s Director of Psychology, and secondary handler Erin Carroll.

Both completed an intensive two-week, hands-on training program with Canine Companions. At least one designated handler is present whenever Weasley works with patients.

The program also emphasizes Weasley’s well-being. His handlers are trained to monitor his comfort, behavior and engagement throughout the day, while scheduled breaks give him time to rest.

After work, Weasley goes home with Terepka, where he can relax and play before returning to the hospital.

Weasley has a remarkable ability to connect with people, Terepka said. “He often gravitates toward someone who needs comfort, resting his head on a patient’s lap or simply sitting quietly beside them. In behavioral health, healing is built on connection, and Weasley reminds us that compassion can take many forms.”