A therapy dog program at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital is playing a crucial role in the recovery of a Choctaw middle school student who suffered severe injuries in a dirt bike accident, his mother told News 9.
The initiative, Paws for Purpose, utilizes five golden retrievers to assist young patients with pain management, procedural support, and emotional healing. Among them is Prince, a therapy dog who has been instrumental in the rehabilitation of 13-year-old Caleb Brumley.
Caleb was critically injured last April when he collided head-on with his father’s dirt bike. The impact sent him flying 10 feet into the air, resulting in multiple fractures, including a compound femur break and a severed femoral artery.
“My husband army-crawled 30 yards to him and applied a tourniquet,” recalled Caleb’s mother, Lindsey Brumley. “He saved our son’s life.”
Now, as Caleb relearns how to walk, Prince is offering both physical and emotional support.
“I still struggle with fully bending my leg and running,” Caleb shared.
Hailey Feland, Caleb’s physical therapist and Prince’s secondary handler, emphasized the dog’s role in the recovery process.
“Prince has helped Caleb with trauma and pain management, particularly with bending his knee,” Feland said. “For many patients, therapy is stressful, especially when they’re in pain or dealing with significant trauma. Prince helps by providing a distraction and comfort.”
Kelly Simmons, Manager of Pediatric Rehabilitation at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital, highlighted the program’s impact.
“Healing is our primary goal, and the transformation we see when patients interact with these dogs is incredible,” Simmons said.
The benefits extend beyond the patients themselves. Lindsey Brumley credited Prince with offering her solace during the difficult months following Caleb’s accident.
“I know he had a huge impact on Lindsey as she navigated the trauma,” Simmons added. “Prince provided her with much-needed comfort.”
As Caleb continues his recovery, he faces an additional surgery due to growth-related complications. However, he remains optimistic, knowing Prince will be by his side throughout the process.
The Paws for Purpose program is exploring expansion opportunities to reach more children in need.