Joint Base San Antonio has just upped its comfort game, introducing two new facility dogs to Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC), and the staff can't hide their joy. The new four-legged officers, Aja and Hershey, have been commissioned as Army officers, with ranks befitting their duties – Aja to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and Hershey, to Major, KSAT reported.
As per KENS5, they join a canine team at BAMC that already includes Army Major Budd and Air Force Major McAfee. These dogs are more than just pets, they serve as icebreakers, and bring emotional support to patients and staff alike. Hershey's handler, Maj. (Dr.) Mark Ahlenius said, "He comforts patients that are going through something hard, often going up and putting his head on their lap before they even tell me what is going on." Even teenagers, typically a tough crowd, can't resist a moment with Hershey.
It's not just the patients who are benefiting from these dogs, the staff at BAMC find solace in their presence. Sandra Hunt, a registered nurse, shared with KSAT, "We love having Aja. If it’s a bad day, if it’s a good day, she just makes it better." Lt. Col. Aja's handler, Lt. Col. Kristen Shear, a nurse scientist has noticed, "Out of the four facility dogs, Aja has the most energy."
America's VetDogs, the organization providing BAMC with these facility dogs, trains them for multiple roles, including as service and guide dogs. The skills Aja knows can be as nurturing as giving hugs, which according to Lt. Col. Shear, "triggers this decrease stress response," as she puts her head on the person's shoulder. This displays America’s VetDogs' dedication to harnessing the unique, therapeutic qualities, that dogs naturally possess. Whether it's with a smile or a much-needed hug, Aja and Hershey are doing their part to make BAMC a place of more than just healing, but of hope and comfort as well.
