Specially trained facility dog to provide goal-directed therapeutic support across the care continuum
VALHALLA, NY — June 6, 2026 — Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, a member of Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), today announced the addition of Simone, a highly trained Canine Companions® facility dog, to its Child Life team, expanding innovative, family-centered support for children and families navigating hospitalization.
Simone will work alongside a certified Child Life Specialist to deliver goal-directed therapeutic interventions that help patients cope with some of the most challenging aspects of care, including procedures, pain, anxiety, and long-term treatment journeys.
“From the moment patients walk through our doors, our focus is on delivering compassionate, comprehensive care,” said Erika Berman Rosenzweig, MD, William Russell McCurdy Physician-in-Chief & Chair, Department of Pediatrics at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. “Simone is an extension of that commitment, providing comfort, building trust, and helping children feel more at ease during difficult moments.”
Unlike volunteer therapy animals, facility dogs are specially trained service dogs who work full-time in clinical settings as part of the care team. They are intentionally integrated into treatment plans to support clinical goals, including procedural preparation, pain management, mobility, and emotional coping.
At Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, Simone will assist patients and families across a range of settings by:
- Providing distraction and comfort during medical procedures
- Helping reduce stress, fear, and anxiety
- Supporting rehabilitation and ambulation alongside therapy teams
- Assisting with coping during long-term or complex hospitalizations
- Offering comfort to families and care team members
Simone was expertly trained and placed through Canine Companions®, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing lives by providing highly trained service and facility dogs at no cost to recipients. Each facility dog completes extensive, specialized training, learning more than 40 commands designed to support therapeutic interventions in healthcare environments.
“Simone’s presence helps transform the patient experience in meaningful ways,” said Marci Lewis, Certified Child Life Specialist and Facility Dog Handler at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. “She’s not just providing comfort, she’s helping patients achieve clinical milestones, build confidence, and feel a sense of control during their hospital stay.”
Facility dogs are carefully selected for their temperament and ability to work in complex environments and are paired with trained professional handlers to ensure safe, effective integration into patient care.
The addition of Simone reflects WMCHealth’s continued investment in innovative programs that prioritize the emotional and psychological well-being of patients and families—recognizing that healing extends beyond medical treatment.
Photos and b-roll of Simone will be provided upon request.
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