A Day at Work with Sophie

-By Sofie, Resident Therapy Dog at SPARCC Sports Medicine

Hi there! I’m Sofie—a therapy dog and proud member of the care team at SPARCC Sports Medicine. The coat I wear may not be all white, but don’t

let that fool you—I take my job very seriously. I come to work with my mom, who’s one of the amazing nurse practitioners here. Together, we help people feel better, inside and out.

When we arrive at the clinic in the morning, my first task is floor inspection. It’s not glamorous work, but someone has to do it. Cleanliness is a top priority in a healthcare facility, and I make it

my mission to ensure no crumbs, snacks, or stray crackers have escaped since yesterday. Sadly, I never find any (a true tragedy), but that won’t stop me from doing a thorough sweep every morning I come to work.

Next, I make the rounds with my coworkers—the humans who keep this place running. SPARCC is full of the best people—doctors, nurse practitioners, athletic trainers, clinical techs, medical assistants, the front desk team, and so many more. Some of our providers specialize in things like brain injuries or musculoskeletal conditions. But me? I specialize in everyone. I greet each of my teammates with a tail wag and a nuzzle to see how they’re doing. If someone seems a little off or stressed, I know just what to do. A few extra snuggles, maybe a well-placed head on a lap—it’s amazing what a little love can do. Some say I have a sixth sense for emotions, but I just pay attention. It’s all part of the job.

Then come my favorite people—the patients. Every day, our clinic helps folks who are recovering from concussions, sports injuries, long COVID, and more. Some patients are young and like to sit on the floor with me while their parents chat with my mom. Others are older adults who need a little help getting around. I walk slowly with them down the hallway, matching their pace and offering comfort. I’ve even been told that my presence helps lower blood pressure. I’m not

surprised—have you seen how soft my ears are?

Of course, I have my limits. For example, I don’t sit on people’s laps during procedures or injections. Not because I don’t want to—I just don’t fit in the chairs. That’s why I brought in some backup: Molly, our Botox dog. Molly’s job is to sit with patients while they receive Botox injections to help with migraines. She’s smaller, cuddlier, and perfect for lap duty. Together, we make a great team.

Being a therapy dog means I get to help people feel better just by being myself. Cuddles and pets are my specialty, but I also know when to give space. Some patients just smile at me in passing,

and that’s okay too. Whether it’s a quick pat on the head or a prolonged belly rub, I’m here to support them however they need.

Around lunchtime, I take a well-earned nap under my mom’s desk. I believe in working hard, but rest is essential—especially if I plan to chase tennis balls after work. In the afternoon, I return to my rounds, helping patients feel welcome and relaxed as they arrive. Whether it’s someone coming in for a post-concussion visit or another learning to move again after an injury, I do my part to make the experience a little easier.

Floor inspection, complete!

The truth is, SPARCC Sports Medicine isn’t just a clinic—it’s a team. And I’m happy to be part of it. Everyone here believes that healing takes more than just great care plans (though we have plenty of those). It takes connection, compassion, and sometimes, a little canine support.

So if you ever find yourself at SPARCC Sports Medicine, don’t be surprised if a little brown-and-white blur trots over to greet you with a tail wag and a sniff. That’s me—Sofie. And if you’re getting a shot, keep an eye out for Molly too. We’ll be there to make your visit a little warmer, a little friendlier—and definitely more furry.

After all, healing comes in many forms. Mine happens to come with a wagging tail.

"Work-life balance requires rest." -Sophie