Paint and Pets - Featuring Professor

Patient Saniya, 18, remembers meeting animal assisted therapy dog, Professor, for the first time during an outpatient appointment in 2017 (over seven years ago). “Professor and I go way back,” she said. Saniya remembers Professor’s head peeking out from the office on his first day. “I couldn’t believe it, "she exclaimed. Saniya shares a special bond with Professor whether cuddling with him or playing with squeaky toys with him. Saniya also engages in art therapy sessions with Christina Auriemma, licensed art therapist. Christina works closely with Professor to provide both animal assisted therapy and art therapy interventions to patients and families during hospitalization. The combination of sensory and art based interventions has proven to provide patients and families with a safe and comforting environment to explore feelings, engage in creative expression and offer an outlet for positive coping. Christina and Saniya engaged in “Paint and Pets.” During one session, Professor laid closely to Saniya and snuggled in her lap while she engaged in a mixed media art piece titled “Mount Pups.” This mixed media piece features the Mount Sinai logo created with watercolor paint with an overlap cut out image of facility dogs, Professor and Amos. Saniya often speaks to the benefits of art therapy and animal assisted therapy sessions for pain management, positive coping and comfort. “I just love how fun and loving Professor is and of course his soft fur. He always brings a sense of calmness,” she explained.

Saniya is looking forward to featuring her artwork in the upcoming edition of REFLECTIONS, the Zone’s teen art and literary magazine. This bi-annual publication is aimed towards bringing the visions and voices of teen patients in the hospital and in the community at large to light. Saniya has been a part of the REFLECTIONS community for the past few years through her literary and art submissions and looks forward to her continued involvement.