Golden Retriever Has Volunteered at Salem Hospital
An 11-year-old dog named Kimber brings comfort to patients while working alongside his owner.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Dogs
Kimber, an 11-year-old Golden Retriever, serves as a volunteer at Salem Hospital. He provides support to those in the hospital while wearing a designated purple collar and official badge.
Why it matters
The presence of a therapy animal can provide significant emotional support for patients during their stay. This service has been a consistent part of the hospital experience for five years.
The volunteer team consists of 78-year-old retired physician associate Eric Schuman and his 11-year-old Golden Retriever, Kimber. They have been active at Salem Hospital for five years.
The players
Kimber
An 11-year-old Golden Retriever serving as a volunteer therapy dog at Salem Hospital.
Eric Schuman
A 78-year-old retired physician associate who has volunteered his time at the hospital for five years.
Salem Hospital
The local medical facility that coordinates volunteer programs for the community.
The details
During volunteer shifts, Kimber is identifiable by a purple collar adorned with a hospital badge. His owner, Eric Schuman, remains in control of the dog throughout the visit by holding the leash. This controlled interaction ensures a safe and structured environment for patients throughout the hospital.
Timeline
2021: Eric Schuman began volunteering at Salem Hospital.
The Home Front
Hospital volunteer programs often integrate therapy animals to enhance patient recovery and mental well-being within the healthcare environment. This trend aligns with broader efforts to improve the patient experience through established animal-assisted therapy protocols.
If you are interested in community service, check with local hospitals to see if they maintain a registered therapy animal program for volunteers. Prospective volunteers should ensure their pets meet all facility health and temperament requirements before applying.
The takeaway
Volunteering with a pet can be a rewarding way to give back to the local community while providing comfort to those in need. Families interested in similar roles should first contact their local facility to verify insurance and behavioral certification requirements for therapy animals.
Further reading
Learn more about local programs involving Dogs in your neighborhood.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Salem Reporter.
