PeaceHealth St. Joseph’s facility dog program makes healing possible
The Greatest Need Fund sustains the therapy dog program, helping patients heal and supporting caregivers every day.
Philanthropy makes it possible to provide care that cannot always be ordered, billed or measured on a chart. At PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, donor generosity supports initiatives that care for patients both emotionally and physically. One of the most loved initiatives is the facility dog program, supported today through gifts to the Greatest Need Fund.
For nearly 30 years, philanthropic support has helped bring specially trained facility dogs into patient care at St. Joseph. These dogs support recovery in practical ways. They encourage patients to move, help lower stress and increase participation in therapy. Just as important, they offer comfort and hope during the most difficult moments of a person’s life.
The program began in 1997 with Kuni and Metcalf, two dogs trained through Canine Companions. They were followed by Gallie, whose many years of service touched thousands of patients and caregivers before her retirement in 2024. Today, that legacy continues with Lilikoi. Formerly handled by Kim Blatz, who is now retired, Lilikoi now works alongside Speech Pathologist, Nancy Rice.
Because of donor support, Lilikoi receives the food, medical care and training she needs to be part of the care team. Research shows therapy dogs can reduce stress and increase patient motivation, making therapy feel more welcoming. Lilikoi encourages patients to get out of bed by “needing” a walk, helps build balance and coordination by playing catch and supports fine motor skills through simple interactions with her vest. Patients who are hesitant about therapy are often willing to participate when Lilikoi is involved.
“Lilikoi brings joy into some of the most challenging moments patients face,” Kim says. “Her presence helps patients feel supported and willing to try.”
Caregivers benefit as well. Brief visits with Lilikoi help reduce stress, lift spirits and create moments of connection during long shifts. These moments improve the care environment for everyone.
One caregiver recalls a visit with a patient who was quadriplegic. When Lilikoi entered the room, she focused on him immediately. She climbed into the caregiver’s lap so she could reach the patient’s face and gently nuzzle his cheek. The moment was short, but deeply meaningful. It echoed similar moments with Gallie, who formed strong, intuitive bonds with patients, including those living with Parkinson’s disease. These experiences are possible because of donors who choose to give.
Guided by the Foundation Board of Directors, the Greatest Need Fund invests where the hospital needs it most, stepping in to keep initiatives like the therapy dog program strong and sustainable.
This program is a powerful example of philanthropy in action at PeaceHealth St. Joseph. Because of donor generosity care remains deeply human grounded in compassion and a Mission that will guide healing for generations to come.
About PeaceHealth Foundations: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a non-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. Since 1890, PeaceHealth has been guided by a Mission of healing and compassion. Today, PeaceHealth Foundations carry forward that legacy — powered by philanthropy and grounded in community. As the philanthropic partner to PeaceHealth’s nine medical centers and more than 160 clinics, we help expand access, advance technology and empower caregivers to provide exceptional and compassionate care. Every gift ensures that outstanding care continues to reach families, friends and neighbors throughout the Northwest. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Discover the impact of philanthropy at peacehealth.org/foundation.
