Charleston SC, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Dunkin’ and partners celebrated National Dog Day at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital with a wellness event featuring therapy dog activities. Patients enjoyed stretching, donut decorating, and emotional support from facility dogs like Baskin, part of Dunkin’s Dogs for Joy program. The event aimed to uplift spirits and promote children’s health initiatives nationwide, supported by donations from attendees that benefit children facing illnesses.
Charleston, SC – Dunkin’ and its hospital partners recently celebrated National Dog Day with a wellness event at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital. The event was designed to bring joy to patients and caregivers, showcasing the positive impact that therapy dogs have in medical settings.
The event featured facility dog Baskin and Dunkin’ mascot Sprinkles at the forefront, leading activities aimed at enhancing wellness and offering emotional support. Activities included stretching and Pilates-based movement, donut decorating, and coloring activity sheets, all crafted to uplift spirits within the hospital environment.
Baskin, as part of the Dunkin’ Dogs for Joy program, actively participates in the emotional and therapeutic needs of pediatric patients. This initiative aims to place facility dogs in children’s hospitals, starting in 2018, with the goal of raising spirits and supporting medical teams. Since its inception, the program has successfully provided 50 facility dogs to 33 hospitals across the United States. These dogs play critical roles in calming children during medical procedures and encouraging them to engage in physical activity.
As part of the festivities, Dunkin’ also revealed the launch of its 2025 Dunkin’ Joy x BARK toy collection. Attendees had the opportunity to support children’s health initiatives nationwide by making a $16 donation, which included receiving a collection of dog toys. This initiative not only promotes pet-friendly fun but has also raised over $12.5 million to aid children facing illnesses throughout the country.
This event aligns closely with Dunkin’s mission to provide joy to children dealing with hunger and illness, reflecting a commitment to making a positive difference in their lives. By promoting interactive activities and fostering an environment of love and care, Dunkin’ and MUSC Children’s Hospital continue to support young patients in their journey to recovery.
Background of Dunkin’ Dogs for Joy Program
The Dunkin’ Dogs for Joy initiative was introduced to help integrate the benefits of therapy dogs in crucial settings like children’s hospitals. Over the past five years, the program has seen a significant expansion, with therapy dogs becoming an indispensable part of the healing process for young patients across the country.
Facility dogs work closely with medical staff, assisting in reducing anxiety and providing a source of comfort. The presence of these dogs has been documented to improve patient interactions, decrease stress levels, and create a more supportive environment for children facing health challenges.
Additional Information
Both the wellness event and Dunkin’s ongoing initiatives support a broader community effort to promote health and recovery for children experiencing illness. By engaging in activities that foster joy, Dunkin’ continues to live up to its mission of enhancing the wellbeing of children and their families during tough times.
FAQ
What was the purpose of the National Dog Day celebration at MUSC Children’s Hospital?
The event aimed to bring joy to patients and caregivers, showcasing the benefits of therapy dogs in medical environments.
What activities were included in the event?
Activities included stretching and Pilates, donut decorating, and coloring activity sheets designed to uplift spirits.
What is the Dunkin’ Dogs for Joy program?
This initiative places facility dogs in children’s hospitals to help raise spirits and assist medical teams. It has supported 50 facility dogs across 33 hospitals in the U.S.
How can donations from the event be used?
Contributions directly support children’s health initiatives nationwide, contributing to Dunkin’s mission of providing joy to children dealing with illness.
What impact have therapy dogs had on patients?
Therapy dogs have helped calm children during medical procedures and have encouraged them to engage in physical activity.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Purpose | To bring joy to patients and caregivers on National Dog Day. |
| Main Activities | Stretching, Pilates, donut decorating, and coloring sheets. |
| Facility Dog | Baskin, as part of Dunkin’ Dogs for Joy program. |
| Launch of Toy Collection | Dunkin’ Joy x BARK toy collection introduced for donations. |
| Funds Raised | Over $12.5 million for children’s health initiatives. |
| Program Impact | Provides therapy dogs to children’s hospitals to aide in medical procedures. |
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