Buckeye Paws Program – Therapy Dogs – Ohio State Medical Center

About Buckeye Paws

BuckeyePaws_OhioState Buckeye Paws was founded in March 2020 to promote the mental and emotional health of staff and faculty members at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center by providing support and comfort through highly trained, certified therapy dog-handler teams. A visit with a friendly, nonjudgmental therapy dog can change the dynamics of the work environment, improve mood and decrease stress.

In March 2022, Buckeye Paws announced the expansion of the program to assist students, faculty and staff throughout The Ohio State University. The expansion is an example of how the university supports the health and safety of the Buckeye community.

To ensure the safety of patients, visitors, staff, students and the therapy-dog handler team, a strict policy and protocol was developed. Each dog has been evaluated, certified, and trained on a quarterly basis by our master canine trainer to participate and wear the Buckeye Paws uniform. All handlers are employees of the medical center or university that volunteer their time outside their roles and are trained in trauma-informed care and mental health first aid. Buckeye Paws is a true peer assistance initiative.

Sign up for a visit from the Buckeye Paws program

Visits may be requested and scheduled for a group, department or unit by emailing BuckeyePaws@osumc.edu. There’s no charge for the visit with staff, faculty and students of The Ohio State University and the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. Dogs must visit within a facility owned by the medical center or university.

Within the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, Buckeye Paws teams are not able to visit peri-operative and procedure areas; oncology (the OSUCCC – James) units 11, 12, 14, 15 and 16 or The James West Campus units or James West Campus units 3 and 4.

We understand that people may have personal, cultural and medical reasons for avoiding or disliking dogs or pets. We’re cognizant of these issues and will avoid these interactions. The program follows a strict policy to ensure safe contact for everyone.

Be a part of our program

To participate as a Buckeye Paws dog-handler team member, the handler must be staff, faculty or employees of the medical center or of the university, with with their personal dog. Prior to being accepted into the Buckeye Paws program, each dog must be at least 1 year old, spayed or neutered, pass a temperament test and must be certified through the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen and First Response K9.

To apply to join Buckeye Paws as dog-handler team member, please email BuckeyePaws@osumc.edu.

All training before joining the Buckeye Paws program will be handled by an external trainer at the cost of the handler.

If you’d like to learn more or join our patient-centered therapy dog program, visit Comfort Paws or email ComfortPaws@osumc.edu.

In the news

Ohio State Wexner Medical Center study suggests therapy dogs improve healthcare workers' moods

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Sealed with a shake: Member of Ohio State's Buckeye Paws Program promoted to captain

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Meet the Buckeye Paws dogs

Albie

Albie is a golden retriever. He was born on October 31, 2022. Albie is a rescue dog from Golden Endings in Grandview, Ohio. Albie loves to play with his older golden retriever sister, Phoebe (and any other dog who will have him). He is a sucker for full speed car rides with the windows down, and getting to use his giant webbed feet to go for a swim. He is a true retriever in that you can always find him carrying around a plush toy (or stray sock) at home. While he has not been known to turn down food, he really loves a good “pup cup” when he tags along to get coffee with his humans. Fun fact: Albie was born without one of his bottom molars. It really shows when he is trying to chomp a crunchy treat like a carrot! Albie’s handlers are Caitlyn and Stu.

Ashby

Ashby is a Labrador retriever. He was born on April 19, 2019. Ashby was originally born into the Canine Companions for Independence program but changed professions when he was adopted and became a therapy dog. Ashby has numerous fur siblings and human siblings. He loves to hike, camp and play with squeaky toys. He will never miss a meal or an evening walk! Ashby’s handler is Ann.

Bailey

Bailey is a Labrador retriever. She was born on February 18, 2018. Bailey loves any and all food. Her favorites are pup cups, fruit, sweet potatoes and peanut butter. She loves to swim, hike and go on runs. She had knee surgery from a partially torn CCL and went through Ohio State University's veterinary sports medicine and physical rehabilitation program, and now she can sprint and play like a puppy again. She is the middle "child" to her two dog siblings, Ruger, an Australian shepherd, and Hazy Jane, a Labrador. Mom is her favorite. Bailey’s handler is Heather.

Bo

Bo is a golden retriever. He was born on July 5, 2018. He enjoys rolling around in the grass, zoomies and his bedtime treats. When gets very excited, he sings! Bo’s handler is Daphne.

Boo

Boo is a Samoyed. He was born on July 8, 2024. Boo is a typical "smiling Sammy," and he loves tennis balls, water cookies (ice) and whipped cream. When he’s not napping on an air vent, he enjoys chasing chipmunks in the woods, making trips to the lake and taking a good nap on his porch. His handler is Taylor.

Brienne

Brienne is a yellow Labrador retriever, named after Brienne of Tarth, a "Game of Thrones" character. Brienne was born on January 21, 2017. Her best friend is her fur brother, Henry, and her favorite treat is pineapple. Brienne’s handler is Beth.

Brody

Brody (“You’re gonna need a bigger boat,” Harborview’s Chief Brody) is a golden retriever. He was born on June 8, 2022. Brody is the great-nephew and roommate of Toula, a retiree of Buckeye Paws. He adores her, and she loves him for about 10 minutes at a time. He loves eggs, cheese and anything round, like a ball (big or small). Brody’s handler is Jess.

Charlie

Charlie is a black Labrador retriever. He was born on June 12, 2025.  He’s a gentle, affectionate dog with a heart full of love. He enjoys playing ball with his two fur sisters and his human sister, and together they share endless games, laughter, tummy time, tennis ball toss and plenty of belly rubs. With his calm spirit, loving personality and unwavering affection, Charlie is ready to share his heart with every person he meets. Charlie’s handler is Gina.

Cooper

Cooper is a F2 Goldendoodle. He was born on April 20, 2020. Cooper loves riding in the car, especially going through drive thrus, because he knows all the places that will give him treats! He doesn’t understand how big he is and loves to sit on your lap. Cooper’s handler is Jen.

Copper

Copper is a beagle mix and was adopted in October 2015 at 4 months old from a rescue program in Indiana. He’s trained and has competed in dog agility, scent work and lure coursing, and has earned numerous titles through the American Kennel Club and canine performance events. He has three dog siblings and still loves to play with them in the yard. Copper is very sweet and loves meeting people and getting attention. Copper’s handler is Renee.

Daphne

Daphne is a golden Labrador retriever who was found as a Craigslist rehome in 2024. She has a bitter feud with the shadowy figures beyond the fence in her yard, and she steals cat food and destroys stuffed animals – but when she’s not committing crimes, she’s so sweet and loving. She loves swimming and having her belly rubbed and has dubious success with fetching balls. Daphne’s handler is Lissa.

Ellie

Ellie is a Shih Tzu, Dachshund, Chihuahua mix born on August 1, 2020. Ellie was a rescue from the Columbus Humane Society. She loves to run, loves to play, loves to run and play. Her free time is spent watching birds and squirrels out the window. Ellie loves people and is so excited for her new job with Buckeye Paws! Ellie’s handler is Jackie.

Esty

Esty is a giant schnauzer. She was born on Dec. 13, 2020. Esty loves to play “chuck it” and go dock diving. Her favorite snacks are Rice Krispies Treats. Esty’s handler is Garrett.

Finn

Finn is a Labrador retriever (red) born on Dec. 9, 2020. Finn loves sticks (the bigger the better) more than any other toy but food will forever be his favorite. When he must settle for toys, he loves stuffed squeaker toys and will often bring you two at a time. He loves attention and sometimes gets jealous of his brother, a cat named Dexter. Finn has been working toward his goal of joining the Buckeye Paws team since he was brought home in January 2021. Finn’s handler is Jillian.

Flint

Flint is a golden retriever. He was born on July 13, 2020. This lovable mama’s boy is all about snuggles and snacks. Flint adores cozying up with his favorite human, but don’t let his soft side fool you – he’s also a playful little troublemaker who loves teasing his two furry sisters by stealing their toys. His ultimate treat? Bananas! Whether he’s curled up in your lap or playfully stirring up mischief, Flint brings a whole lot of love and laughter to every day. Flint’s handler is Amanda.

George

George is an English Labrador retriever, born on April 26, 2024.  George’s typical day starts with him eagerly awaiting breakfast, taking a morning walk and attempting to negotiate a second breakfast. He enjoys car rides with the windows down, swimming, hanging out at the gym and pretty much anything that involves being with his people. George’s handler is Ashley.

Goose

Goose is an English cream golden retriever. He was born on Feb. 2, 2020. Goose weighs 110 lbs., his favorite toys are sticks and Lamb Chop, and he loves cheese. His favorite song to sing to is “Is It True,” by Tame Impala. Goose’s handler is Katie.

Hope

Hope is a German shepherd, and was born on March 2, 2020. She lives on a farm with two other German shepherds, where she enjoys swimming in the creek and hiking in the woods. When she’s not working as a therapy dog or exploring all the farm has to offer, Hope doubles as a trick dog, and dabbles with rally courses and dock diving. She’s proud to be following in the pawsteps of her cousin Ellie, who was one of the original four Buckeye Paws dogs. Hope’s handler is Emily.

Indy

Indy is a Labrador retriever/golden retriever mix. His birthday is March 24, 2022. Indy loves to eat…almost everything! He especially enjoys all kinds of fruit – bananas, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, apples and pears. And he adores his big brother, Shiloh. He’s also the older half-brother to the Columbus Police Department’s Therapy Dog, Maverick. Indy’s handlers are Rhonda and Mary.

Khuno

Khuno is a Siberian husky. He was born on April 13, 2021. Khuno enjoys sleeping in (he is not a morning dog), loves “husky talking” and peanut butter treats are his favorite. Khuno’s handler is Rick.

Kobi

Kobi is a shepherd mix. He was rescued as a puppy in 2017 from a rural Kentucky shelter and has been keeping his family entertained ever since. He’s known for his fluffy tail, which seems to be a favorite among puppies, and for his love of bird watching from his favorite backyard lookout, affectionately named Pride Rock. Kobi is a firm believer that every opinion deserves to be heard, especially his own. He loves to “talk” and share his thoughts with anyone willing to listen, which means he’ll fit right in with the marketing team, where his handler, Curtis, works. And while he may be a seasoned professional, Kobi never got the memo that he’s supposed to act his age. You might catch him happily bouncing down the hospital hallways, ready to make new friends and brighten someone’s day.

Kramer

Kramer is a yellow Labrador retriever. He was born on Jan. 14, 2019. Named after Kramer from “Seinfeld,” he has a fun-loving personality to match. Having grown up around horses, he believes every horse is his friend. When he’s not working, you’ll likely find him swimming, soaking up the sunshine or chasing bunnies to make sure they head back into the bushes. One of his favorite outings is a trip to Bridge Park in Dublin, where he gets to meet new people and collect plenty of pats on the head along the way. Kramer’s handler is Becky.

Mabel

Mabel (aka Mabel the Wonder Dog) is a kind and gentle golden retriever. Mabel’s birthday is unknown but she was adopted around a year old on Feb. 3, 2023. She is the picture of resilience and paws-itivity. She got a ruff start in life, but is now all settled into the role she was meant to play – a therapy dog who loves everyone she meets. Mabel has lots of calm energy and a bottomless craving for being petted and hugged. She also really just loves the simple things, like lying outside on a sunny day. Mabel’s handler is Ryan.

Max

Max is a double doodle (Labradoodle and Goldendoodle). He was born on Feb. 21, 2024. Max loves a good ice cube, enjoys stealing paper products and burns energy by playing tug of war with brother, Berkley. Max’s handlers are Ashley and Hunter.

Murphy

Murphy is a Bernese mountain dog. He was born on Aug. 8, 2023. Murphy loves white cheese, yellow cheese, ALL the cheese! His beautiful brown eyes will look deep into your soul, hoping you will give him some cheese. Murphy’s handler is Lisa.

Murphy

Murphy is a Bernedoodle. He was born on Jan. 18, 2022. Murphy is a happy, friendly and sensitive soul. Even as a puppy, he never chewed or destroyed anything – he always seemed mature beyond his age. Murphy lives on a farm and has several siblings, including a goat and a horse. His favorite activities include taking an afternoon nap and carrying around a pair of socks wherever he goes. Murphy loves being with his humans and is always ready for the next adventure. He’s an excellent travel companion, going to destinations including Acadia National Park and Mount Rushmore. When it’s time to show off, Murphy’s best trick is balancing a treat on his nose. His gentle personality, love for people and calm demeanor make him so special. Murphy’s handler is Megan.

Norman

Norman Fuzzy Britches is a red golden retriever. He was born on July 5, 2021. His best friend is his big brother, Ollivander Fluffy Bottom, who is an orange tabby cat. Tennis ball is life! Give Norman all the head scratches behind the ears. He loves some McDonald's french fries, popcorn and doing tricks for treats. Please give him all the love and kisses, he is here to make your day brighter. Norman’s handlers are Hilary and Jared.

Norman

Norman is a Doberman/Vizsla mix. He was born on March 24, 2022. Norman loves toys, birds and squirrels. His favorite teams are The Ohio State University Buckeyes and the Buffalo Bills. His best friend is his fur sister, Cookie. Norman’s handler is Paul.

Pepper

Pepper is a golden retriever. She was born on Dec. 17, 2022. Pepper is the heart and soul of her home! She loves love ,and is happiest when she’s in direct contact with her family – whether that means curling up close for snuggles or simply being part of the action. A loyal companion through and through, she’s always the first to respond when someone’s in need and never says no to a cuddle. Pepper enjoys long walks in the neighborhood with her humans, enthusiastically chasing after her favorite squeaky toy, and engaging in daily games of fetch, keep-away and tug-of-war. Life with Pepper is full of laughter, love and just the right amount of mischief. Pepper’s handlers are Ken and Jenna.

Riley

Riley is a collie. She was born on May 25, 2018. Riley hates it when her luxurious fur gets wet, so she refuses to step in mud or go out in the rain. But snow, on the other hand, that’s another story and she can’t get enough! Riley’s handler is Cheryl.

Rosie

Rosie is a golden retriever. She was born on March 21, 2022. Rosie is a sweet girl who loves to go for walks, is scared of brooms and loves spending time with her stuffed animals. Rosie’s handler is Sydney.

Russell

Russell is a Labrador retriever. He was born on Feb. 4, 2018. Russell is a career change guide dog from Leader Dogs for the Blind. He had a unique upbringing, as he was raised by a prison inmate until he was a year old. It definitely gives him some serious street cred at the dog park! Russell has a few nicknames, and Slider is one of them. He earned this moniker after the iconic character in "Top Gun," and because he loves to slide into a Superman position on any hard surface flooring. When he's not showing off his sliding skills, you can call him Russ or Big Russ. He's a playful and affectionate companion who's always up for an adventure and snacks. One of his favorite treats are bananas. Russell's got a heart full of love, loyalty and a wagging tail that never stops. Russell’s handler is Dennis.

Stella

Stella is a Belgian Malinois born on Oct. 31, 2018. Stella’s favorite toy is a tennis ball or her training tug. She loves to go everywhere with her dad but specifically loves the river and swimming. She went to the ocean one time on a camping trip and loved playing in the waves. Whatever the adventure, she is always ready. Stella’s handler is Ben.

Sully

Sully is an English cream golden retriever. He was born on Dec. 8, 2020. His favorite treat is anything Dad is making in the kitchen, and his favorite snacks are bluebs (blueberries). He loves going to doggo camp, stalking deer and bunnies in the backyard and snuggling. Sully is such a good boy. He prays before his meals and does not destroy his toys. Sully’s favorite toy is his plush deer he picked out at Cabela’s. He is such a love bug and wants to be everyone’s friend. He is very excited to go to work with his Mamma as a Buckeye Paw. Sully’s handler is Kari.

Trixie

Trixie is a Maltipoo. Her “gotcha day” was July 9, 2018. Trixie loves to travel, and has lived in six different states! She was made to be a therapy dog and is excited to meet all of her new friends. Trixie’s handler is Allison.

Vegas

Vegas is a mini Goldendoodle. She was born on May 13, 2016. Vegas’ full name is Vegas Bella Johnson. She loves to swim, her favorite toy is a tennis ball and her favorite bedtime snack is orange cream yogurt. Yum! Vegas’ handler is Sheila.

Violet

Violet Mae is a bichon frise. She was born on Dec. 27, 2020. Her all-time favorite activity is being outside lying in the grass soaking up the sun, and she enjoys digging holes and getting dirty. Thankfully, she LOVES bath time and relaxes like she’s at a spa. Her favorite toy is a pink crinkle monkey. Mom has had to buy quite a few because Violet likes to chew off the arms and legs. Violet’s handler is Stephanie.

Wally

Wally is a Shih Tzu. He was born on March 21, 2018 in the Buckeye State of Ohio. He was named after his dad’s favorite Nascar driver, Rusty Wallace. Wally loves to play with his stuffed babies and take a leisurely float on his raft in the pool during the summer. Wally wants to be held and cuddled. If you stop giving him attention, he will let you know that it is time for you to resume. Wally’s handler is Kelli.

Winnie

Winnie is a Labrador retriever. She was born on Dec. 4, 2021. Winnie loves everyone she meets, most animals (not rabbits), FOOD, and life in general. At one time, she considered a career in paper shredding but decided it wasn’t as lucrative as Buckeye Paws. Never leave your socks or scrunchies unattended or they will become hers. Winnie’s handler is Claire.

Wrangler

Wrangler is a long-haired German shepherd. He was born on Oct. 18, 2021. Wrangler LOVES a good ball-run play or to simply carry it around. He will do anything for Fresh Pet treats! Wrangler’s handler is Allison.