August 04.2025
2 Minutes Read

Celebrating 20 Years of Pet Therapy: The CHKD Buddy Brigade’s Paw-pularity Contest

CHKD Buddy Brigade Pet Therapy dogs wearing blue bandanas.

The Heartwarming Impact of Pet Therapy at CHKD

The Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters (CHKD) has been a pillar of support for families in the greater Hampton Roads area, particularly in the sphere of emotional well-being through its pet therapy program, affectionately known as the "Buddy Brigade." Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the initiative showcases how a simple wagging tail can transform a child's hospital experience into something truly uplifting.

A Program Rooted in Love and Dedication

Launched with a humble beginning of just seven dogs, the Buddy Brigade has since blossomed into a team of 41 certified and trained therapy dogs. Joy Parker, the director of Volunteer Services and Family Centered Care, reflects on the program’s evolution, stating, "When we started this program 20 years ago, we had no idea how much these pups and volunteers would mean to our patients, their families, and our staff." This sentiment captures the essence of pet therapy's role: bringing unconditional love, motivation, and peace of mind—especially vital in a hospital environment.

Engaging the Community with a Paw-pularity Contest

In celebration of this milestone, CHKD invites the public to engage in a fun and interactive way through a paw-pularity contest on Facebook. Categories such as "Most Likely to Steal Your Heart" and "Best Hair" invite residents to show their support for the beloved therapy dogs who visit various CHKD facilities throughout Norfolk and Newport News, as well as the Child Advocacy Centers and the CHKD Health Center at Oakbrooke in Chesapeake.

Why This Matters to Our Community

For many military families in the Hampton Roads area, the Buddy Brigade's presence provides a much-needed sense of comfort during challenging times. It offers a unique form of therapy that resonates deeply within this community, bridging the gap between healthcare and emotional support. Patients regard these dogs not just as visitors but as local celebrities, which further enhances their healing journey. Hospital officials note the invaluable bond shared between children and these four-legged companions.

Future of the Buddy Brigade

With a successful two decades behind them, the future seems bright for the Buddy Brigade. Parker expresses her optimism, saying, "Our organization has embraced pet therapy wholeheartedly, and we look forward to what future opportunities might arise to touch even more lives." This optimistic outlook emphasizes CHKD's commitment to continuing to enrich the lives of its patients and the surrounding community.

Join the Celebration!

As CHKD celebrates this remarkable milestone, community members are encouraged to participate in the ongoing contest, showcasing the beloved therapy dogs that have made such an impact on those in southeastern Virginia. Their presence is a testament to the healing power of companionship and affection.

Your participation not only honors the hard work of these therapy dogs but also highlights the community's appreciation for the role of organizations like CHKD in promoting mental well-being.

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