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Winston's wagging tail brings comfort and connection

Published Date
Author Providence Oregon News Team

June 2026

At Providence Medford Medical Center, healing comes in many forms — sometimes with four paws and a wagging tail. Every Friday, Winston, a Shetland sheepdog, makes his rounds, bringing comfort, joy and a sense of calm to patients and caregivers alike.

A familiar and welcome presence, Winston visits several departments, including urology, pediatrics and inpatient units. Wherever he goes, he creates meaningful moments that help people feel at ease.

A brighter start to every visit

Rodel Cura has been with Providence for more than ten years. He first met Winston while working in the pediatric clinic. He says Winston set the tone for patients and their providers. When he moved to urology, Rodel wanted to make sure Winston could follow.

He reached out to Winston’s owner and Providence volunteer, Linda Watkins. That’s when Winston added a urology visit to his Friday afternoons.

“They [patients] may be sad, but when they see Winston, they get a big old smile on their face,” Linda says.

Rodel agrees.

“Patients come in with an unknown diagnosis. They automatically feel comforted and safe when Winston visits. We know it’s going to be a better day with him.”

Support for patients — and caregivers, too

Winston’s presence extends beyond patients to the caregivers who support them every day. His visits offer a pause, a breath and a shared sense of comfort during busy days.
“We often times lean on Winston with some of our emotions,” Rodel says.

Winston previously visited alongside his brother, Stanley, who passed away last year. Even through that loss, Winston continues to show up with the same joyful spirit.

“Knowing he’s lost Stanley, and the plight our patients and ourselves go through, it helps us navigate that.

“That he’s still able to come visit us and be joyful and cheerful. It helps us do our best work,” Rodel says.

Expanding comfort across the hospital

Winston is one of six therapy dogs who visit Providence Medford throughout the week, ensuring that comfort is never far away.

“He brings a lot of comfort and takes off the weight that we feel from day to day,” Rodel says.
Savannah Bamber, the hospital’s volunteer coordinator, sees the impact every day.

“The dogs bring me happiness as a dog lover. I also see a true impact in the patients and caregivers they visit,” she says.

Providence Medford welcomes a therapy dog on campus Monday through Friday. Patients and families can request a visit, making it easy to access this unique source of comfort during their care journey.

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