Hollys Comfort Crew

Holly wanted to tell you about her visit!

When I walk into Integris Mental Health Center, I can always feel the excitement before I even see anyone. My nails tap‑tap‑tap on the tile floor, and suddenly I hear it — voices calling out:

“Holly’s here!”

That’s when my tail starts wagging so hard my whole backside wiggles.

My Kids Know I’m Here!

I walked down the hallway, and the kids are already waiting. Some were bouncing with excitement, some were shy, and some just needed a quiet moment. I know how to help each one.

I give big hugs — the kind where I rest my head on their shoulder and stay very still so they can breathe and feel safe. Sometimes I nudge them gently with my nose to say, I see you. I’m right here.

When I sit on the floor, three or four kids gather around me like I’m their fluffy mountain. I stretch out my paw to one, lay my head in another’s lap, and somehow I always know who needs me the most.

They laugh when I try to turn around in tight spaces — I’m too big! I can’t rollover either. I get stuck! I don’t mind. Their giggles are worth it.

They love when I shake hands or catch treats in the air. I love it too. Their smiles are my favorite reward.

Today was extra special. The children had been busy — they made pictures just for me. They held them up proudly, and I sniffed each one, so they knew I loved them.

My human put the pictures on the refrigerator, just like she used to do when her own kids were small. She told the children, “Holly can see these every day.” And I can. I really can!

Playground Adventures

On sunny days, the children go outside, and that’s when the real fun begins. They line up — patiently, sweetly — waiting for their turn to walk me around the playground. Their hands are small, but they hold the leash with such pride.

They give me water from my water bottle, pat my head, and tell me stories as we walk. I listen to every word and smile back at them.

Goodbyes That Feel Like Love

When it’s time to leave, each child gives me a hug and a kiss. They tell me, “See you in two weeks, Holly.”

Some kids who are going home before my next visit stay a little longer, holding onto me like they’re storing up comfort for later. I stay as long as they need.

My human tells them, “Holly goes lots of places — the airport, the library, special events. You might see her again.”

And their eyes light up with hope.

Helping the Grown‑Ups Too

I also visit the adult ward. Grown‑ups need comfort just as much as kids do — sometimes even more.

Some adults look unsure at first, but I walk up slowly, wag my tail, and lean in. They always soften. They always smile. A hug from me gives them a little confidence, a little warmth, a little reminder that they matter.

The nurses, techs, and staff come to take their turn to see me. They work so hard. I can feel it. They bend down, wrap their arms around me, and I let them rest for a moment. I love them too.

I Know My Job

I’m just a dog — a big, fluffy, gentle dog. But I know when someone needs me. I know when to lean in, when to nudge, when to lay my head down, when to offer a paw.

I know how to make people feel seen.

And every time I leave Integris, I feel it too — I made someone’s day a little brighter.

That’s my favorite job in the world.

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