Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center
Facility Dog
New Patient Appointment or 214-645-4673
At Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, we're excited for you to meet Tia, our affectionate facility dog who brings a comforting presence wherever she goes. The 1-year-old golden Lab is working full time at the center to offer emotional support and assist in any way she can.
Tia is always eager to lend a helping paw, whether it’s picking up a dropped item, retrieving a fallen cane, or pulling a wheelchair. She has extensive training to handle a variety of simple tasks. She can even provide a steadying force for those who need a little extra stability when standing.
Her friendly demeanor alleviates some of the stress and anxiety often associated with cancer treatment. Patients have found solace in her gentle manner, and many look forward to their visits with Tia as a bright spot in their day. Her ability to sense when someone needs a bit of extra love is truly remarkable. Under the guidance of her handlers, Tia offers hugs, places her front legs in laps for comfort, and responds to anxious behaviors, ensuring our patients and their families can absorb her calming strength.
Studies show that having a visit with a facility dog significantly decreases anxiety and improves relaxation for patients, especially during their chemotherapy/ immunotherapy infusion visits. Simmons’ patients have found solace in Tia’s gentle manner, and many look forward to their visits with her as a bright spot in their day. Her ability to sense when someone needs a bit of extra love is truly remarkable. Under the guidance of her handlers, Tia offers hugs, places her front legs in laps for comfort, and responds to anxious behaviors, ensuring our patients and their families can absorb her calming strength.
Tia is also an integral part of supportive care. She participates in group activities as well as one-on-one interactions. She is trained in diverse settings, so you may also see her outside the cancer center at nursing homes or community events. Her playful nature and love for belly scratches and rope toys create some normalcy and joy, which is especially beneficial for our younger patients. Through her work with the Young Adult Cancer Support program and the Families Connected program, Tia helps to foster a nurturing community where patients and their families can connect, share, and heal together.
In addition to assisting patients, Tia is here to support our dedicated staff. Caring for patients with cancer and their families can be challenging, and Tia supplies a much-needed sense of peace and relaxation.
We are thrilled to have Tia as a part of our team at Simmons Cancer Center. She offers a unique and invaluable element to the care we provide. Whether you're here for treatment, visiting a loved one, or working hard to help our patients, Tia is always ready to brighten your day.
To request a visit with Tia at a future appointment, please contact Alex Huffman, LCSW, OSW-C at SCCCSupport@UTSouthwestern.edu.