i just found this thread. i worked a long time ago as a therapist and i took my dog to the hospital with me three days a week. the board approved it and tippy played an integral part of group therapy. the new patients, he would sit by during group. didn't do anything, just sat next to them. if someone wanted to pet him, they had to ask and if he seemed okay with it, they petted him. they posed for pics with him and hung out with him when we were working one on one.

a woman who had not spoken in eight months was new and he was sitting with her and all at once, scared us all to death, she said, "Pat, i think Tippy needs to go outside".......she had been there almost 10 days and had never spoken to anyone.

no one ever complained about him. he was extremely still and quiet and only interacted if he was approached. however, a lot of patients did tell me that they were glad he was there. it made it more "homey" for them.

i wouldn't mind if my T had her dog with her......but i think it is a very individual choice. pat