Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center
Facility Dog
New Patient Appointment or 214-645-4673
The Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center is excited for you to meet Tia, our affectionate facility dog. The 2-year-old golden Lab has a comforting presence wherever she goes, and she works 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.
Studies show that interacting with a facility dog significantly decreases anxiety and improves relaxation for patients, especially during their chemotherapy/ immunotherapy infusion visits. Patients have found solace in Tia’s gentle manner, and many look forward to her visit as a bright spot in their day. Under the guidance of her handlers, Tia offers hugs, places her front legs in laps for comfort, and responds to anxious behaviors, ensuring that our patients and their families can absorb her calming strength.
Tia is an integral part of our supportive care. She is trained to serve in diverse settings, from group activities and one-on-one interactions to spending time outside the cancer center at nursing homes and community events. Tia’s playful nature and love for belly scratches and rope toys brings a sense of normalcy and joy. 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.
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 receiving treatment, visiting a loved one, or working hard to help our patients, Tia is always ready to brighten your day.
If you’ve had a visit with her at an appointment recently, please take a minute to "Tell Us About Tia."
Tia's Touches
Simmon's Cancer Center has launched Tia’s Touches, a fund to help cancer patients with pet-related expenses like food, veterinary bills, and boarding services. This initiative aims to reduce the financial stress of pet care, allowing patients to focus on their own health and recovery. This fund is available to UTSW patients who are receiving active cancer treatment and share their home with a cat or a dog. Financial assistance criteria must be met. Patients will need to submit an application and provide substantiating financial documents for pet care.
If you would like to request an application, please email SCCCSupport@utsouthwestern.edu to connect with your clinic social worker.
If you would like to support Tia’s Touches and help alleviate the financial burden on cancer patients, please consider making a donation. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of patients and their pets, providing much-needed relief during their treatment journey.
To request a visit with Tia at a future appointment, please contact Supportive Care at SCCCSupport@UTSouthwestern.edu.