Texas Children’s Hospital brings Fourth of July cheer to patients

Texas Children’s Hospital marked the Fourth of July with Red, White and Woof, a small in-hospital celebration in Houston’s Texas Medical Center for children, families and staff. Patriotic crafts, games and a photo booth gave patients who could not leave for fireworks or a backyard gathering a holiday that felt festive inside the hospital.

One of the day’s main draws was Melman, Texas Children’s facility dog, who wore a holiday-themed bandana while visiting with patients. Melman is a 2-year-old Labrador/Golden Retriever cross who began work in 2024 with handler Adair Winget in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and the Texas Children’s Heart Center. He took over after Bailey, a Golden Retriever who retired in May 2024 after more than six years of service.

The hospital’s Child Life Department began in 1975 and helps alleviate stress and anxiety while promoting positive coping for patients and families. Its services include animal-assisted therapy, art therapy, music therapy, school support, family and sibling support and special events, all aimed at helping children understand treatment and feel more normal during a hospital stay.

Texas Children’s facility dogs are specially bred and trained, with more than a year and a half of preparation before they begin work. They work full time alongside child life specialists and the wider care team, and the hospital gives them lunch breaks, grooming and daily paw cleaning like other employees. The Pawsitive Play Program, launched in October 2016, supports emotional well-being and reduces anxiety, pain perception and feelings of isolation for patients and families.

Another facility dog, Crosby, joined the hospital in November 2023 and works with child life specialist Shelby Strauser.