Nov. 25, 2025 - Ascension St. John Rehabilitation Hospital of Owasso, an affiliate of Encompass Health, has a new member on its therapy team, but it may not be who you expect. Meet Molly, the hospital's therapy dog. Molly, a certified therapy dog through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, began her work at Rehabilitation Hospital of Owasso on October 20. She visits two to three days a week to make her friendly rounds.
“Molly's main goal is to make patients happy and boost their morale,” says Courtney Bergman, a speech pathologist with Rehabilitation Hospital of Owasso. “She loves on patients, plays ball with them during group therapy sessions and greets them in the mornings with their therapy schedule.”
Bergman oversees Molly and is instrumental in incorporating her into patients' rehabilitation plans.
“The patients have loved seeing Molly,” says Bergman. “Their participation in therapy has improved. We've also noticed a difference in our staff's improved moods when they see Molly at work.”
Before Molly became a member of the team, she completed four months of obedience school. She also passed the Canine Good Citizen test, a 10-skill assessment administered by the American Kennel Club. The training focuses on developing good manners in dogs. Molly also has nightly homework - practicing commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “lay down,” “wait” and “dance.” Bergman believes therapy dogs can play an important role in recovery after a life-changing illness or injury.
“Therapy dogs can be a wonderful addition to hospitals as dogs improve participation, happiness and provide comfort," says Bergman. “Many of our patients have animals of their own that they have not been able to see for a while. Seeing Molly brings them comfort and happiness at such a scary and hard time in their life.”
Molly's workload will increase as she builds skills and endurance. Bergman says Molly will also attend hospital events such as support groups and holiday gatherings, as she inspires patients on their journey back to health.
