Philadelphia – The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) celebrated the retirement of its first full‑time facility dog, a yellow Labrador named Dilly, on October 8, 2026. Dilly began his service in the summer of 2020, becoming the inaugural member of CHOP’s animal‑assisted therapy program and quickly earning a reputation for easing anxiety and providing comfort to young patients.

Six years of daily visits

During his tenure, Dilly worked five days a week, primarily at CHOP’s main Philadelphia campus. He also traveled to the hospital’s King of Prussia location and the Behavioral Health and Crisis Center on Cedar Avenue, ensuring that children throughout the network could benefit from his calming presence.

Trained by Susquehanna Service Dogs, Dilly was skilled in reading patient cues, offering gentle physical contact, and helping families navigate the stress of hospitalization. His handlers included child‑life specialist Lizzy Olsen, who later became the coordinator of the facility‑dog program, and a group of volunteer “favorite aunties” who assisted with day‑to‑day interactions.

Community response and future plans

The retirement ceremony drew staff, patients, and families who gathered to honor Dilly’s contributions. Many shared stories of how a simple wag of his tail or a brief cuddle helped them cope with procedures, surgeries, or long stays.

CHOP’s leadership emphasized that Dilly’s retirement does not signal the end of the program. His half‑sister, Nettle, remains an active facility dog at the hospital, and administrators expressed optimism about expanding the team with additional therapy animals in the coming years.

Why animal‑assisted therapy matters

Research consistently shows that animal‑assisted therapy can lower stress hormones, reduce perceived pain, and improve overall mood for pediatric patients. By integrating trained dogs like Dilly into clinical settings, CHOP aligns with a growing national movement that recognizes the therapeutic value of human‑animal bonds.

“Dilly’s presence has been a source of hope and normalcy for countless children,” said Lizzy Olsen. “His retirement is bittersweet, but we are grateful for the foundation he helped build, which will continue to benefit families for years to come.”

How to learn more

Families interested in the facility‑dog program can visit CHOP’s website for details on volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and the criteria for future therapy‑animal placements.

Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.