Medical Facility Dog Program
Structured support for regulation in clinical environments
Before the Bark is developing a facility dog program designed to support both patients and staff through intentional, low-stress dog–human interactions.
This work is grounded in a simple idea:
Behavior reflects the state of the nervous system—and meaningful change happens when that system is supported, not overwhelmed.
What This Is
This program is not based on unstructured therapy dog visits or casual interaction.
Instead, it focuses on:
predictable, guided interactions
low-pressure engagement
supporting the nervous system in returning to a more stable state
These interactions are designed to:
reduce stress
support emotional regulation
create moments of connection without adding additional demand
What Makes This Different
Most animal-assisted programs focus on presence.
This program focuses on process.
Each interaction is approached as part of a regulation cycle:
orientation
activation
resolution
recovery
By working within that cycle, interactions can support—not disrupt—the body’s ability to process stress.
The goal is not distraction or temporary comfort, but helping the system move toward stability in a way that holds.
How It Works
The program is being developed with a focus on:
Structured interactions
Clear beginnings, endings, and boundaries to support both the dog and the personEnvironmental awareness
Adjusting to the demands of clinical settings without overwhelming the dogGradual integration
Beginning in lower-intensity environments and expanding as appropriateConsistency and repeatability
Building interactions that are predictable and sustainable over time
Dog Welfare
The wellbeing of the dog is central to the program.
Dogs are selected and trained for:
emotional stability
low sensitivity to environmental stress
the ability to engage and disengage cleanly
Work is introduced gradually and always guided by the dog’s capacity.
Dogs are not expected to work continuously, and participation is structured to allow for:
recovery
rest
and long-term sustainability
Partnership & Inquiries
This work is being developed with future collaboration in mind.
If you are:
part of a healthcare or clinical setting
interested in integrating structured dog–human interaction
or exploring partnership opportunities
Current Status
This program is currently in development.
Initial work is focused on:
building the training and handling framework
developing appropriate placement models
and identifying environments where this approach can be implemented safely and effectively
Meet the Team
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Monet Goode
FOUNDER
With a vision for building something meaningful, our founder brings a blend of big-picture thinking and hands-on experience.
They set the tone for everything we do. -
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Emmett Marsh
SALES MANAGER
Focused, approachable, and driven by results, our sales manager is all about building strong relationships. They help connect people to the right solutions—with clarity and care. -
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Eleanor Parks
MARKETING DIRECTOR
Creative and strategic in equal measure, our marketing director brings fresh ideas to every campaign. They turn insights into action and help our message resonate with the right audience. -
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Karl Holland
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER
Friendly, attentive, and always ready to help, our customer service manager ensures every interaction is a positive one. They keep communication clear, timely, and human.
