Human-dog reunion in TKO hospital: Staff helps fulfil terminally ill patient's final wish

Many people consider their pets important family members. Being able to say goodbye to a beloved pet and family at life's end is a final act of respect for life. Recently, Tseung Kwan O Hospital exceptionally arranged a touching "human-dog reunion," fulfilling a terminally ill patient's last wish and leaving behind warm, regret-free memories.

According to the Hospital Authority publication HASLink, a terminally ill elderly patient at Tseung Kwan O Hospital was permitted to reunite with his 8-year companion dog, Rio, in the hospital ward one month before his passing. This special visit was meticulously arranged by multiple departments at Tseung Kwan O Hospital. The hospital emphasized that besides treating patients' physical conditions, they also care for their emotional needs, striving to fulfill the elderly patient's wish.

Eight years ago, a puppy Rio saw the elderly man on the street and followed him persistently, unwilling to leave. From that day on, the man took him home, and they became family, depending on each other for many years. As the man's condition worsened requiring long-term hospitalization, they were forced apart. When he was referred to palliative care, he repeatedly expressed to medical staff and family his endless longing for Rio, hoping to see his beloved dog one last time.

Multi-Department Hospital Collaboration Initiates Special Visit Arrangement

Tseung Kwan O Hospital medical ward manager Tam Cheuk-kit stated that after assessing the risks and patient needs, hospital management fully supported this reunion and promptly initiated cross-departmental planning, including the ward and infection control team, to ensure the process was safe and did not affect ward operations. The cross-departmental collaborative arrangements included:

• Health Checks: Ensuring Rio had completed necessary vaccinations, was microchipped, and thoroughly cleaned.
• Route Planning: A direct route from the parking lot to an isolated room on the 8th floor, avoiding peak visiting hours and high-traffic areas.
• Transport Arrangements: Rio was transported in a cloth-covered dog carrier to minimize impact on the hospital and ward.

Medical Staff Uphold the “Patient-First” Principle

On the day of the visit, as soon as the dog carrier was opened, Rio immediately recognized his owner on the hospital bed. He excitedly wagged his tail and lay down beside the man. A smile appeared on the man's face as he repeatedly reached out to gently pet his beloved dog. Family members silently witnessed this “human-dog companionship” reunion, which was also the last time the man saw Rio before his passing.

Tam recalled: “The scene of the elderly patient reuniting with Rio deeply touched every medical staff member present. The patient and family repeatedly thanked the hospital for its cooperation, making me feel that this visit greatly strengthened the trust and understanding between medical staff and patients.” This special visit not only fulfilled the patient's wish but also brought inspiration to the medical team. The hospital hopes to continue upholding the “patient-first” principle, striving, under rigorous procedures and feasible circumstances, to help patients receive spiritual support in their final stages of life, leaving behind precious and regret-free memories for patients and their families.