Meet Kiko

Meet Kiko, a golden retriever who provides comfort to young patients as part of the Canine Health and Medical Pals (CHAMPs) facility dog program.  

Kiko has been professionally trained to work in a health care setting as an important part of a child’s treatment process. She helps motivate patients to reach specific goals such as walking, taking medicine, and eating. She can provide positive therapeutic experiences, as well as distraction and comfort for patients during medical procedures. Her calming influence also supports medical teams that work hard to care for patients and families in difficult and intense situations. 

CHAMPs facility dogs have a very different role than the many furry friends who have provided cuddles and comfort to young patients in a group setting for the past 20 years through Pet Pals, a community volunteer program. CHAMPs dogs come to work every day to provide one-on-one therapy to patients. They live with their primary handler — a certified child life specialist whose role is to help patients and families cope with the hospital experience. 

The CHAMPs facility dog program is supported entirely through philanthropy. We extend a special thank-you to the Comer Family Foundation and SKYJAM for making the facility-dog program possible and to UW Veterinary Care and the UW-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine for providing care. 

Share Your Story

Did UW Health or the UW School of Medicine and Public Health have a life-changing impact on you or someone you love? Be part of the Wisconsin Medicine story by inspiring others with your story. Share it now.