Ray of Hope

ICAN Rainier

For nearly six years, Cheryl Bennett dreamed of having an Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) facility service dog to join her team at Community Hospital Anderson.

As the Inpatient Rehabilitation Manager, Cheryl recognized the benefits a service dog could bring to the patients that required rehabilitation while recovering from surgery or illness.

In 2019, Cheryl’s dream became a reality when she was matched with yellow Labrador and Golden Retriever mix, Rainier (Ray). Since joining the team, Ray has been an invaluable part of the rehabilitation process, working alongside the occupational, physical, and speech therapists that Cheryl leads.

Cheryl and Rainier

“Over the years, I’ve we’ve been able to come up with a way for Ray to help with almost any patient need,” Cheryl explained.

After a stroke or other injury, individuals work on rebuilding strength in one side of their body by brushing Ray. This simple exercise helps patients to work on coordination and build muscle in their arms.

Individuals also practice opening the compartments to Ray’s puzzle toys and placing treats inside to rebuild fine motor skills.

For many patients who have pet dogs at home, holding Ray’s leash and walking him helps build confidence and a sense of normalcy. They also work on lower body strength and coordination by navigating obstacle courses with Ray that involve walking on uneven surfaces and stepping over hurdles.

Ray’s favorite game is batting a balloon back and forth with patients to help improve their hand-eye coordination. Once the patient hits the balloon toward Ray, he bumps it back with his nose.

Ray also plays a unique role in helping with speech challenges. By learning the cues he understands, patients practice speaking clearly so that Ray can perform the correct behavior.

One inspiring experience for Cheryl and her team was a teenager who struggled with stuttering and had difficulty speaking in public settings. Over time, this patient gained confidence speaking to Ray and eventually was able to walk Ray around the hospital, answering questions from strangers and practicing speech fluency.

“Never in a million years would I have guessed I’d be able to do something like this,” Cheryl said. “Seeing the smiles Ray brings to people’s faces is so special to me.”

You, too, can help support facility service dog teams like Rainier and Cheryl. Learn more at icandog.org.