At the University of Colorado Anschutz School of Dental Medicine, wellness is a core value woven into every mission area, from patient care and education to research and community engagement. For the past three years, the Paws for Smiles program has brought therapy dog ambassadors into the school’s lobbies and common spaces, offering patients, students, residents, faculty and staff a chance to slow down and find comfort during what can sometimes be stressful days.
Supported by the Lila Lee Cogen Paws for Smiles Fund, established by Ms. Judi Cogen and the Cielo Foundation, this initiative reflects the school’s dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all. Patients who are dog-sensitive are encouraged to notify their providers in advance.
From Idea to Impact
The Paws for Smiles initiative was introduced to explore how dog ambassadors could help reduce stress and create a calmer, more welcoming environment for patients, students and staff. Over the past three years, the program has grown from a small pilot into a structured, consistent offering.
Since the program’s inception, therapy dog ambassadors have interacted with more than 5,500 individuals at the CU Dental clinics. The school has expanded the roster of therapy teams, refined our processes and developed a strong partnership with Denver Pet Partners. Paws for Smiles has become a trusted wellness initiative that the community loves.
“The response has been incredibly positive,” said Althea Reutzel, MS, program manager. “Many patients now schedule their appointments specifically around the days the dogs will be on campus, and they know each of them by name. Students often tell us it’s one of the most effective ways they decompress during exams or busy clinic days, and staff appreciate the noticeable boost in energy and morale. They have even started keeping treats behind the welcome desk and the dogs know exactly where to go!”
One story stands out for Reutzel: “We’ve seen a particularly meaningful impact in our Special Care Clinic, which serves patients with complex developmental and physical needs. The dogs are incredibly intuitive in that space. Many of these patients form strong connections with the dogs, and the presence of a familiar, comforting companion can make all the difference. One patient needed dental treatment but was extremely fearful and would only come unless one of our dog ambassadors was present. With that support, the patient was able to receive the care they needed.”
Althea Reutzel, manager of student well-being and recruitment, and Paws for Smiles program manager, pets chocolate lab Fleur, one of Denver Pet Partners' therapy dogs, in the CU Anschutz Dental Clinic lobby.
Reutzel notices a reduction in anxiety amongst patients when the dogs arrive. “You can actually watch people’s shoulders drop. The whole atmosphere changes. There’s less tension and a lot more smiles. It’s a small presence, but it makes a powerful difference.”
“Healthcare settings can feel overwhelming, especially for patients who are already anxious,” Reutzel explained. “Programs like Paws for Smiles help soften those moments and remind people they’re cared for as humans, not just patients.”
Dean Denise Kassebaum, DDS, MS, echoed this sentiment: “Paws for Smiles reflects our commitment to whole-person care. Dentistry is about more than teeth; It’s about trust, comfort and human connection. This program embodies that philosophy and reminds us that even small gestures can have a profound impact on health and well-being.”
Three years in, Paws for Smiles has proven that sometimes, the best medicine comes with a wagging tail.
Top photo: Dental students take a break in between classes and clinics to pet Sunshine, a golden retriever therapy dog, in the school's lobby.
