El Paso, Texas – For the past seven years, a golden‑retriever mix named Coco and her handler, Rodd Garcia, have become a familiar sight in the halls of Del Sol Medical Center. The volunteer duo visits patients and staff daily, offering a calming presence that research shows can reduce stress, anxiety and depression.
Volunteer partnership
Garcia, who refers to himself as Coco’s “dad,” first learned about therapy dogs when a representative from the nonprofit Paws 4 Love approached him at a local dog park. “I asked if it involved massaging animals,” Garcia recalled with a laugh. After a brief explanation, he and Coco began their volunteer work, quickly becoming a dependable source of comfort for the hospital community.
Impact on patients
Hospital staff report that Coco’s visits lift spirits and provide a brief respite from medical concerns. One nurse observed that patients often “melt” when they see the wagging tail, and many pause to pet the dog, momentarily shifting their focus away from pain or worry. The therapy visits have even helped a non‑verbal patient speak their first words, illustrating the potential of animal‑assisted therapy to aid communication and emotional healing.
End‑of‑life care
Beyond everyday interactions, Coco also offers solace to patients receiving end‑of‑life care. Garcia notes that the simple act of petting a dog can allow patients to forget their woes for a short time, providing a sense of peace during difficult moments.
Community involvement
Garcia’s commitment to therapy work follows a family tradition; he previously volunteered with another therapy dog named Duke, who was also beloved by patients. He describes the relationship with Coco as mutually beneficial, saying they “saved each other.” Before adopting Coco, Garcia provided extensive care to help the dog adjust to her new home, and now she returns that care to the community with “all her heart and wagging tail.”
How to help
Paws 4 Love continues to recruit additional therapy dogs and handlers. Those interested in joining the program can visit the organization’s website or email the provided contact address for more information.
Therapy dogs like Coco exemplify how simple, compassionate actions can make a meaningful difference in health outcomes, reinforcing the value of volunteerism and animal‑assisted care within El Paso’s medical community.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
