Did you know that pets are quickly becoming an important part of modern patient care? Many hospitals are realizing that friendly dogs can help people heal significantly faster.  Dogs that are carefully chosen and well trained can act as physical therapists for the ailing patient.  Dogs encourage the patients to exercise their arms and legs by playing a game of fetch or grooming. These dogs are particularly helpful to patients that need physical therapy after a brain or spinal cord injury. Patients also benefit from the dogs unconditional love and acceptance. Pet therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.  We could all benefit from a little of this therapy. So at the end of a hard day at work, give your candystriper dog a nice comfortable place to sleep. A big rawhide bone would do well before he turns in!