Bailey Hoover AAT CERTIFIED

Emotional Support Animal

Bailey, born May 8, 2017, is a registered emotional support dog who plays a crucial role in the behavioral health care team at Aloha Behavioral. With a deep affection for all of his patients, Bailey has a special connection with children, particularly those who struggle with attachment, social anxieties, or emotional difficulties related to therapy. His presence helps ease these challenges, allowing children to transition more comfortably into their therapeutic sessions.

Bailey has completed Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) training, which is designed to enhance social, cognitive, and emotional functioning. He is particularly effective in supporting patients with affective disorders, such as depression and anxiety, by providing calming, non-judgmental companionship that encourages emotional expression and connection. His gentle nature helps to break down emotional barriers and facilitates trust-building between patients and their therapists.

In addition to AAT, Bailey thrives in Animal-Assisted Activity (AAA), a more informal and unstructured model where he can freely interact with patients through petting, hugging, and companionship. This relaxed approach fosters emotional comfort, which can be especially beneficial for patients who may feel overwhelmed or resistant to traditional therapy methods.

Bailey is a full-time member of the Aloha Behavioral team, having started at just two months old. While his training was briefly interrupted due to health issues, he is now fully recovered and continues to make a significant impact on the therapeutic process. He works primarily with Cara Webb and his sister, Lulu-Mopster, but enjoys greeting every patient he encounters, offering unconditional emotional support. Bailey’s contributions are an integral part of the integrated behavioral health care approach at Aloha, supporting patients not only in their therapeutic journey but in fostering overall emotional well-being.