Meet Clara, a 10-year-old Newfoundland therapy dog, and her owner, Mary Ellen Kraus, who have been brightening the lives of patients and staff at Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital. Mary Ellen, a volunteer in the Caring Canines program along with Clara, has had four Newfies. Mary Ellen and her Newfies have served as Hospital therapy teams for nearly 30 years, the past 19 years of them at Cleveland Clinic Fairview Hospital. These therapy dogs are tested for obedience, calmness and friendliness.
Every week, Clara and Mary Ellen visit the outpatient surgery waiting area, the hospital lobby and the pediatric psychiatry unit, where patients may initially be shy but soon become fast friends. Pet therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety, depression, and pain, and improves overall well-being. Clara is a familiar face around the hospital, often recognized by patients and caregivers who proudly keep her trading card in their wallets or on their fridges.
Clara’s story is one of resilience. Mary Ellen rescued and adopted her after she was abandoned at less than a year old, suffering from heartworms and requiring six weeks of hospitalization. Today, Clara helps spread comfort and joy as part of the Fairview Hospital’s Caring Canines program, which supports both patients and caregivers through the companionship of therapy dogs.
For additional information regarding the Caring Canine program, please contact Coleen Monroe, the program coordinator at 440.567.9447 or
[email protected].
Clara, a 10-year-old Newfoundland therapy dog.
Clara and her owner, Mary Ellen Kraus.
Hospital caregivers know Clara by name and always stop to say hello.
Clara visiting friends in the hospital lobby.
Pet therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety, depression, and pain, and improves overall well-being.