A heartwarming video of Macho the Magnificent, a Golden Retriever therapy dog, recently melted hearts across social media. On August 24, Macho’s owner, Abby Maxwell Hansen, shared a touching clip showcasing Macho’s delightful interactions at a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
The video captures Macho’s enthusiastic response upon arriving at the NICU. As soon as he realizes he’s about to see the babies, his excitement is palpable. With a wagging tail and an eager trot, Macho makes his way to the NICU, where his true charm unfolds.
Upon entering the NICU, Macho’s behavior shifts from excitement to pure relaxation. Surrounded by the NICU staff, he becomes the epitome of a “fur baby,” basking in the affection and head scratches from the nurses and doctors. The text overlay on the video humorously notes that although Macho was thrilled to visit, he mainly enjoyed lounging and soaking up all the love from his admirers.
In the comments section, viewers expressed their adoration for Macho. One person wrote, “Ah Macho deserves all the hugs and scratches,” while another remarked, “Apparently, he knows where he gets the best lovin’ from.” The video also elicited playful comments such as, “Plot twist: he’s the baby,” and, “Haha. Babies are hidden in the incubators; it’s the nurses who want the therapy dog.”
What Does a Therapy Dog Do in the Hospital?
According to the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, therapy dogs like Macho play a crucial role in healthcare settings. These dogs are trained to provide companionship and comfort to both patients and hospital staff. Accompanied by their handlers, therapy dog teams visit hospital rooms to interact with patients in a supportive and calming manner.
Therapy dogs help patients cope with medical situations by offering an emotional connection and physical comfort. Petting a therapy dog can reduce blood pressure and anxiety, contributing to overall well-being. Additionally, therapy dogs offer valuable support to hospital staff, boosting their mood and providing a much-needed break from the stresses of their demanding jobs.
Macho’s visit to the NICU exemplifies the profound impact therapy dogs can have in healthcare settings. By offering comfort and joy, Macho not only brings smiles to the faces of the NICU staff but also highlights the important role that therapy dogs play in enhancing the emotional and physical health of everyone they encounter.
