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January 22, 2025

Where Every Family Matters

Pet Therapy Program Launches at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford

An innovative pet therapy program recently launched at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford with Magnolia Grace, a sweet three-year-old poodle nicknamed Maggie.

After completing a year-long training program to prepare her for community service, Maggie was welcomed to Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford at a blessing ceremony led by hospital chaplain Keith Travis. Maggie and her handler Nancy Wiggs had the opportunity to meet and bond with several patients. Nancy, a longtime Murfreesboro resident, said that Maggie’s hobbies include bird-watching, eating treats, and pestering her labrador brother.

Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford is excited to expand the pet therapy program in the near future.

About the Author

Michael Aldrich

Michael Aldrich is Nashville Parent's Managing Editor and a Middle Tennessee arts writer. He and his wife, Alison, are the proud parents of 4-year-old Ezra and baby Norah.