Vanderbilt Facility Dog Visits The Academy
Have you ever felt nervous or scared—maybe before a big test, during a field trip, or when facing something completely new? For Niah Carver, a 10-year-old with hypoplastic right heart syndrome, those fears are very real—especially when it comes to hospital treatments. But recently, something (and someone) special has helped her handle those big moments in a whole new way: Squid, a black Labrador facility dog at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.
Who Is Squid?
Squid is not just any dog. He’s a facility dog, trained by Canine Companions to help kids and families during some of the hardest times in the hospital. He works as part of the Canine Clinicians Facility Dog Program, and his services—visits, comfort, and all—are provided free of charge.
What Squid Means to Niah
When Niah met Squid during her treatments, it changed things for her. She says Squid helps her stay calm—he “changes the channel,” mentally speaking—turning moments of fear into something less scary. When she’s not in the hospital, she brings a stuffed animal version of Squid to school with her. That little plush Squid helps her feel safe during things that are overwhelming—like field day.
Sharing Squid With Her School
Recently, Squid’s handler came to Niah’s classroom during their social-emotional learning course at The Academy so all her classmates could see how Squid works: how facility dogs are trained, and how they help patients feel better. It wasn’t just a visit—it was a chance for her classmates to understand more about bravery, kindness, and support. And for Niah, it was empowering for everyone to see and know how someone (or something!) can make a tough day easier.
Why This Matters to All of Us
Sometimes fear or anxiety can make us freeze up. But having someone or something that cares—like a dog trained to comfort—can help us face those moments differently. It’s a reminder that support can come in many forms: friends, family, counselors—and yes, sometimes very special four-legged friends. It also shows the power of kindness: one visit, one presence, one “you’re not alone” moment can change everything.
What We Can Learn
Empathy is powerful. Understanding what someone else is going through—just wanting to help or listen—can mean more than we often realize.
Little things make a difference. A stuffed animal, a visit from someone caring, or even remembering to ask “how are you doing” can make scary times easier.
Courage isn’t always loud. Niah’s courage shows up when she brings her Squid plushie, when she lets others into her hospital world, or just by trusting Squid to be there.
A Big Thank-You to Squid, Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, and the Canine Clinicians Team
To all the people behind the scenes—trainers, handlers, volunteers, and staff at Monroe Carell—thank you for giving kids like Niah something to hold onto. You make the hardest days a little softer.
If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, nervous, or scared, remember: it’s okay to find someone—or something—that helps. And maybe it’s not a dog for all of us, but it could be a friend, a teacher, a counselor, or someone who listens. You’re not alone.
