In honor of National Dog Therapy Day, we recognize the transformative role therapy dogs play in providing comfort, healing and emotional support. In hospice care, where every moment is precious, these incredible dogs offer more than just companionship—they help reduce anxiety, promote open and vulnerable conversations, and even enhance the body’s natural healing process. At Compassus, Mars, a full-time facility dog, is a vital member of the team, offering not only joy but also a powerful presence that soothes and uplifts patients, their families and staff alike.
Monica Korba, a Compassus hospice area market executive in Jefferson City, MO, is Mars’ handler. She has witnessed firsthand the profound impact of therapy dogs. “Pet therapy in hospice is about more than just bringing a dog into a room; it’s about creating a safe, loving environment where people feel heard and supported. It’s a connection that goes beyond words,” she explains. “What’s truly remarkable is how these dogs know how to be there exactly when they’re needed most.”
Scientific research backs up the powerful effects of spending time with therapy dogs. Interaction with animals has been shown to decrease levels of stress hormones, like catecholamines, and increase the release of oxytocin—the “love hormone.” Oxytocin not only helps strengthen emotional bonds but also positively affects the immune system, raising pain thresholds and supporting the healing process. Studies have even shown that after just 20 minutes of petting a dog, levels of immunoglobulin A (an indicator of healthy immune function) rise, helping patients feel better physically.
But it’s not just about the physiological benefits. Dogs like Mars offer a unique kind of emotional support. They provide a safe space for patients to express their feelings, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like death and dying. For many patients, the presence of a dog offers a calm, accepting energy that helps them feel at ease in their most vulnerable moments.
One patient formed a special connection with Mars. She had been diagnosed with a condition that affected her cognition and memory. However, she remained physically active, constantly moving throughout the facility. Staff suggested that she would benefit from regular visits with Mars, and from the very beginning, he became a familiar presence in her daily routine.
As her condition progressed, Monica received word that the patient was nearing the end of her life. When she and Mars arrived, they found a different scene—no longer moving about, the patient was now confined to her bed. Up until that moment, Mars had never laid beside her. But in those final days, something shifted. He instinctively climbed into bed with her, curling up at her side. His small paw rested gently on her pillow as if offering silent comfort. It was as if they both understood—two familiar souls sharing a quiet, final moment together.
“That’s the beautiful thing about these dogs—they meet people exactly where they are. You don’t need to be able to speak or move or even remember for them to bring comfort. They just know. And in that moment, Mars knew,” Monica shared.
Research also shows that therapy animals, through their empathetic responses and mirror neuron activity, are able to understand human emotions and provide comforting interactions, even with patients who may have cognitive impairments. For patients with advanced dementia or those in the final stages of life, interacting with a dog can prompt memories and spark communication when it might not have occurred otherwise. Dogs listen without judgment, offering a safe outlet for both positive and negative emotions.
This kind of emotional and physical support extends beyond patients to families as well. Seeing their loved ones smile, laugh or simply find comfort in a dog’s presence can be a source of relief for families navigating the emotional challenges of hospice care. The joy a therapy dog brings is often a reminder of home, a soothing presence that can bring moments of hope and peace during a difficult time.
Monica’s passion for hospice care and pet therapy is deeply rooted in her belief in the profound impact animals can have on patients. “Hospice is my first love, and pet therapy is my second,” she says. “It’s such an effective tool for healing, and I want more people to know it’s available. If you or a loved one could benefit from pet therapy, I encourage you to ask about it. You’ll be surprised by the positive impact it can have.” 
Monica envisions a future where more Compassus locations incorporate facility dogs. “Mars wasn’t a pet first—he was bred and trained to be a working dog. That distinction matters. Every location that has the capacity should consider having a full-time facility dog. It benefits the team and, more importantly, the patients.”
Her hope is that more people recognize the impact therapy dogs can have. “I want people to see the difference Mars makes. Whether it’s brightening a patient’s day, easing anxiety or just being a quiet companion, the work he does is invaluable. I’d love to see this program grow and bring comfort to even more people.”
We celebrate Mars and therapy dogs like him on National Dog Therapy Day and every day —silent healers whose presence brings peace, comfort and a sense of connection during life’s most tender moments.
Learn more about the services provided by our Jefferson City hospice program at https://www.compassus.com/locations/missouri/jefferson-city.
