PERHAM, Minn. — The kids at M Health Fairview University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital now have a new staff member to... snuggle?
Rocket the Golden Retriever is joining the staff at the hospital. His job description is to "help them take medicine, relax during anxious moments, encourage them to walk after surgery and offer support and affection during medical procedures."
Rocket is the first full-time "facility dog" to join the hospital team. His position is funded by community support and a donation from NutriSource Pet Foods.
Most therapy dogs are not allowed to be present for actual medical procedures, but because of Rocket's intensive training he can be there to calm the children's nerves.
The hospital serves kids who need surgery, imaging, pediatric intensive care, cardiac and oncology services, organ transplants and more.
Rocket was formally introduced to the kids he'll befriend at a ceremony on Dec. 5.
Watch below or click here: MN-based Can Do Canines train dogs for people with disabilities
