Mare and dog visit patients in hospital in RS and help with treatment That animals are capable of offering support and love to people, everyone already knows, but what few imagine is that they can help healthcare professionals. Three years ago, an initiative took a mare and a dog to help treat patients at a hospital in Sapiranga, in the Metropolitan Region of Porto Alegre. The project "Paws and hooves that welcome lives" was created by art therapist Rejane Beatriz, who has worked at Sapiranga Hospital for 12 years. "Throughout this journey, I realized how much animals can access emotions that words often cannot reach." ? Access the g1 RS channel on WhatsApp The protagonists are the mare Sereia and the dog Akira. According to Rejane, they are therapeutic partners and work in different sectors, such as clinical hospitalization, pediatrics, maternity and intensive care units (ICU). "Akira promotes an immediate approach. She accepts the lap, quickly breaks down barriers and awakens a feeling of protection. The Mermaid enchants with her grandeur and delicacy at the same time. Her presence conveys calm, contemplation and acceptance. When they work together, they enhance the therapeutic experience." Patients receive visits from the dog every week and, every two weeks, from the mare. On special occasions, they go together. According to the institution, interaction with animals results in reduced stress, improved mood and sensory stimulation, benefiting the treatment and recovery of patients. For Rejane, the most relevant part is seeing that animals help patients who are in suffering and, often, do not want to talk to either the hospital staff or their family members. "Animals don't judge. They don't demand answers. They don't ask difficult questions. They just offer presence. And, often, that's exactly what someone in pain needs to trust again. The bond happens naturally. Affection is the language of animals and this facilitates a very deep connection", he argues. Art therapist Rejane Beatriz with the mare Sereia and the dog Akira Personal file Health protocols To take the horse to the hospital environment, health protocols are followed. "Before each shift, the Mermaid undergoes a complete bath, hoof cleaning, brushing, cleaning of the mane and tail, as well as a clinical evaluation. She remains fasting for a few hours to avoid elimination during her stay in the hospital", explains the art therapist. Despite the sounds of equipment and the constant movement of people with clipboards, stretchers and wheelchairs, the Mermaid has already adapted and walks freely, without interfering in the dynamics of the nursing home. The health professional highlights that the pair received specific training. She also says that the animals' limits are always respected. If they present any change in behavior, the service is terminated. Animals were adopted The art therapist adopted Akira since the animal was a puppy. The Mermaid arrived in your life in 2019 and, since March 2023, has been assisting with care. "It was love at first sight. She came to live with me and I had no experience with horses. However, living with her daily, I realized that she had all the characteristics I was looking for in a therapy animal: extreme docility, curiosity, emotional and sociable balance." Mare and dog visit patients in hospital in RS and help with treatment Personal archive VIDEOS: Everything about RS