For the last decade, four-legged friends have helped make the days a bit brighter at Maury Regional Health (MRH).

The pet therapy program at MRH was initiated in 2013 to help provide a little comfort to anyone who may need it — patients, visitors or hospital staff. The team has included 19 dogs and their handlers so far.

“You can see the positive impact our pets make on everyone they come in contact with at the hospital,” said Cindy Short, volunteer services director at Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC). “Research has shown that physical contact with a pet can lower anxiety a...