Bari hospital launches pet therapy project for pediatric patients

The San Paolo Hospital in Bari has launched a pet therapy initiative within its pediatric department to support young patients during their hospital stays. The project features Stella, a dog participating in a series of five scheduled sessions designed to reduce stress associated with medical procedures and hospitalization.

Organized by the Smile ETS Association in collaboration with Orme nel Cuore, the program is part of the humanization of care activities promoted by ASL Bari. The initiative aims to create a more welcoming environment, using animal contact to stimulate positive emotions and social interaction among children. The project follows a similar implementation previously conducted in the psychiatry department.