Photo Credits: Good Shepherd Rehabilitation
CENTER VALLEY, Pa. (February 13, 2026) — Nellie, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital’s facility dog, helped deliver valentines and smiles to patients at the inpatient hospital ahead of Valentine’s Day, which is Saturday, Feb. 14.
Nellie visited patient rooms or caught up with patients during their therapy sessions to deliver a special valentine and some petting. Nellie, a golden retriever, also visited Good Shepherd team members to share Valentine’s Day’s messages of love and support.
Video Footage:
Nellie joined the Good Shepherd team in November 2024 and works alongside her handler and owner, Rehabilitation Psychologist Tracy Ransom, PsyD, BCB, MSCP, at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital, 3200 Center Valley Parkway, Center Valley, PA 18034. Ransom completed an intensive, two-week training course at Canine Companions and was thoughtfully matched with Nellie. Trained by Canine Companions, Nellie brings a wealth of skill and warmth to her work.
As a facility dog, Nellie plays an important role in helping patients stay motivated throughout their recovery from stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury and other complex medical needs. She provides both physical and emotional support and reduces anxiety. Nellie knows 40 commands and is trained in working with rehabilitation devices, such as wheelchairs and walkers.
“Nellie’s wonderful with patients and knows intuitively what they need, whether it be helping a patient recovering from a spinal cord injury during their physical therapy session, to snuggling alongside a patient in their bed, to providing anxiety reducing pressure by laying across a patient’s lap,” Dr. Ransom said.
Happy Valentine’s Day from Nellie!
Information provided to TVL by:
Mike Walbert
