July 15, 2026 – Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sewickley has welcomed its newest and furriest visitor – S’mores, a two-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog certified as a therapy animal. Introduced to patients and staff in June, S’mores is making regular visits to patient rooms and the therapy gym, quickly becoming a moment of joy for patients and staff.
“Therapy dogs are invaluable to both our patients and our staff,” said Lisa Hopkins, business development director at Encompass Health Sewickley. “They provide physical, emotional and social benefits. They help improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety during painful events and ease feelings of loneliness or depression. Some of our patients have not been home in weeks, and the joy of seeing S’mores goes such a long way.”
S’mores recently earned his therapy dog certification through Therapets, a program of Pittsburgh-based Animal Friends. Through this partnership, he will visit the hospital one to two times each month, offering comfort, companionship and motivation to patients working toward recovery.
Hospital staff say S’mores has already demonstrated a natural ability to connect with individuals — whether by calmly resting beside a patient during a difficult moment or bringing energy and encouragement to therapy sessions.