Therapy dog brings everyday skills practice to Oak Lawn hospital rehabilitation

At Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, a therapy dog named Milo is helping patients practice skills they use in daily life. The rehabilitation program incorporates activities with the dog into work tailored to each patient's abilities and needs.

Milo, a Native American Indian dog, worked with two recent stroke patients during the week of Oct. 30. Bill Egan, of Rainbow Assisted Animal Therapy Dogs, described him as well trained and eager to spend time with people. Treats and his work vest help signal that a session is about to begin.

Occupational therapist Alyssa Jacobs said activities with Milo can be adjusted for a wide range of patients. The hospital's rehabilitation team works with people recovering from strokes, brain and spinal cord injuries, transplants and orthopedic conditions. Depending on a patient's abilities, a session with Milo can take place while sitting or standing. Some patients are also able to walk with him.

The exercises connect time with the dog to practical tasks. Brushing Milo gives patients an opportunity to practice holding and moving a brush, a skill also needed to care for their own hair. Patients have used a fork to feed him, bringing utensil practice into the session as well. Jacobs said the available equipment and Milo's versatility give the team several ways to adapt the work.

One participant, Angel Miranda, had experienced a stroke 15 days before the report. Miranda described enjoying the chance to pet Milo and being able to use an arm during the interaction. That experience offers a concrete example of how the Oak Lawn program pairs an engaging activity with movement practice.

Jacobs expressed appreciation for the hospital's support and said she would like to see the program expand. Egan also described feeling good after participating in the rehabilitation sessions. People interested in learning about Rainbow Assisted Animal Therapy Dogs or becoming trained volunteers can find more information on the organization's website.