Therapy dog makes a positive impact on those who need it most

The power of a belly rub on a four-legged friend. A calming and soothing action for most.At Presbyterian Hospital, a 12-year-old Pomeranian mix dog named Two Socks and his handler, Dave Howard, spend hours visiting patients and staff. The duo is making a big difference at the hospital."A lot of times these patients come to the hospital, and they're actually experiencing some of the worst days of their life," said Caitlin Baker, an assistant nurse manager at Presbyterian.Baker has seen how visits from Howard and Two Socks have a huge impact on a patient's mood."A lot of them just have complete changes in just their demeanor," Baker said.Not only have Howard and Two Socks made an impact on patients, but they've also had an impact on the staff at Presbyterian.Baker says staff take a moment to step aside from their daily work flow just to say hi, relax and be "in the moment." It's beneficial for the staff.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —

The power of a belly rub on a four-legged friend. A calming and soothing action for most.

At Presbyterian Hospital, a 12-year-old Pomeranian mix dog named Two Socks and his handler, Dave Howard, spend hours visiting patients and staff. The duo is making a big difference at the hospital.

"A lot of times these patients come to the hospital, and they're actually experiencing some of the worst days of their life," said Caitlin Baker, an assistant nurse manager at Presbyterian.

Baker has seen how visits from Howard and Two Socks have a huge impact on a patient's mood.

"A lot of them just have complete changes in just their demeanor," Baker said.

Not only have Howard and Two Socks made an impact on patients, but they've also had an impact on the staff at Presbyterian.

Baker says staff take a moment to step aside from their daily work flow just to say hi, relax and be "in the moment." It's beneficial for the staff.