With the construction of the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center underway, Texas Children’s is continuing its pursuit of the best possible care for young patients. But a lesser-known part of that mission involves Certified Child Life Specialist CJ Canlas and her facility dog, Cohen. Different from volunteer therapy dogs, facility dogs are intensively trained to work alongside someone like Canlas in support of a patient’s care plan.
Together, the duo works hard to bring joy and reprieve to patients at Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands who spend much of their time focused on medical treatments.
We asked Canlas about her and Cohen’s work at the hospital and how patients respond to the furry friend contributing to their care.
Can you share a bit about your background and how you became a Child Life Specialist at Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands?
I’ve been a Child Life Specialist with Texas Children’s Hospital for about 11 years. I started at the Texas Medical Center location, focusing mainly in radiology and the emergency center. When I learned about the chance to help launch our animal‑assisted therapy program, Pawsitive Play, at Texas Children’s The Woodlands, I jumped at the opportunity—and just last week, we celebrated six years of having this program in The Woodlands!
How were you and Cohen paired together? What was your experience meeting him?
Cohen and I were strategically matched based on the clinical areas I’d be working in, my lifestyle, and the kind of temperament and strengths best suited for that role. We needed a “jack of all trades” dog—one with the energy to stay engaged when needed but also the ability to stay calm and relaxed. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner than Cohen.
What does a typical day look like for you and Cohen in the hospital? How many patients do you visit per day?
We usually have between six and eight scheduled patient visits each day. These are times when we intentionally support a patient during therapy, a procedure, or a challenging moment. But that doesn’t include all the impromptu meetings and interactions that happen as we walk to and from those appointments. Between patient visits, I also have to account for administrative duties and charting, as well as making sure Cohen has downtime. It’s important for him to rest throughout the day so he can be present when he’s working with patients.
Can you share a significant story involving Cohen and a child in the hospital impacted by their interaction?
One that stands out was a patient who had to be rehospitalized after a long and challenging medical experience. The news was incredibly hard for the patient and their family—not only for the child but also for siblings and parents grappling with the emotional toll of starting this chapter all over again. I worked closely with the patient and family to create moments where they felt supported and seen. Cohen became an integral part of that process.
At first, he was a quiet, calming presence, sitting beside the patient during treatments and providing a soft spot for family members to land when emotions felt overwhelming. Gradually, I used interactions with Cohen to facilitate moments of connection and peace with the family. We used moments with Cohen to teach coping techniques—like brushing his fur to practice slowing down and focusing. Over time, these moments with Cohen became a cornerstone of the family’s routine—a way for them to ground themselves.
What is the typical reaction from patients when they see Cohen?
The first reaction we usually get is a positive one, a small smile paired with eager eyes. Cohen has a way of putting people at ease and making the hospital feel a little less scary. But what might seem like a simple interaction is actually very intentional. I’m constantly assessing the patient and environment, thinking about where to position him, how to introduce him, and what approach will best support that child and family.
How do you and Cohen work together to help pediatric patients meet therapeutic goals?
I’m grateful to work alongside an exceptional multidisciplinary team to understand each patient’s needs and goals, and together we create a plan where Cohen can play a meaningful role. This collaboration allows us to use him to support therapy: whether it’s motivating a patient to stay engaged by doing exercises alongside him, or serving as a calm, non‑judgmental presence during a speech therapy session.
For example, a patient might practice these skills by holding his leash or brushing his fur. His soft coat and gentle demeanor make him a soothing sensory tool that encourages participation, making hard work feel more rewarding for the child. Together, we help patients build confidence, find comfort, and reach their goals, one step or one tail wag at a time.
What is the greatest thing you’ve learned through this role and your partnership with Cohen to bring comfort and care to children in the hospital?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that sometimes the simplest moments have the biggest impact, especially when working with adolescents, a population often carrying big, complex emotions. It’s not always about doing something big or finding the “right” words. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a paw resting on a bed or a quiet moment together that allows a patient to open up, exhale, or just be themselves.