Good Shepherd Welcomes Nellie the Facility Dog

CENTER VALLEY, Pa. – We are excited to welcome our new facility dog, Nellie, to the Good Shepherd Rehabilitation team.

Two-year-old Nellie joined us in November 2024 and works alongside her handler and owner, Rehabilitation Psychologist Tracy Ransom, PsyD, BCB, MSCP, at Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital. Trained by Canine Companions, Nellie brings a wealth of skill and warmth to her work.

Ransom completed an intensive, two-week training course at Canine Companions and was thoughtfully matched with Nellie.

“Tracy and Nellie worked very hard – and were very successful – in creating a strong bond during their training, and we are thrilled to have Nellie as part of our inpatient team,” said Robin Fritsch, MSW, vice president of inpatient rehabilitation services and administrator of Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital.

As a facility dog, Nellie plays an important role in helping patients stay motivated throughout their recovery. She provides both physical and emotional support and reduces anxiety. Nellie knows 40 commands and is trained in working with rehabilitation devices, such as wheelchairs and walkers.

Good Shepherd has a few guidelines in place to help provide a welcoming and productive environment for Nellie, staff, patients and visitors. If you see Nellie around the hallways of Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital:

• Please ask before you pet Nellie. You may be asked to shake hands or not pet her at all, depending on the situation. If you are petting her and she is given a command, please pause so she can attend to her work.
• As tempting as it may be, please don’t feed Nellie. She relies on treats and loves to perform her job. Giving her treats can upset her stomach and distract her.

Welcome to Good Shepherd, Nellie!