How Therapy Dogs Are Providing Mental Health Support for Olympians

At this year's Summer Olympics, the athletes have swapped out their usual pre-game sports drinks for something slightly fluffier—lint rollers. Yes, you read that right. It seems therapy dogs have taken center stage, or rather, center track, offering cuddles and comfort in place of caffeine and carbs. It’s a furry twist to the Olympic routine, and frankly, who wouldn’t prefer a good belly rub over an ice bath?

Meet Beacon: Not your average water boy

By now, you may have seen the smiling face of Beacon while scrolling online. This 4-year-old Golden Retriever and therapy dog is just one of several lending a paw at the Olympics this year. It's no secret that the stakes are high and pressure is on for the world's top athletes. So, this golden boy has a very serious job—keeping nerves as chill as his demeanor.

Beacon became a part of the squad last year, accompanied by trainer Tracey Callahan Molnar. After a scandal-filled few years for the US gymnastics team, he's just one step in their new goal to improve team culture for the athletes.

The calming canine effect

Athletes—they're just like us! Except faster, stronger, and probably better at sticking to a routine. They face pressure and stress before a big event like anyone else. This is where dogs like Beacon step in.

Molnar, claims the impact is palpable. When Shilese Jones, a gymnast with hopes as high as her vaults, took a tough tumble, Beacon’s gentle support helped offer a moment of respite. After the latest event, Beacon spent nearly an hour mingling with coaches and gymnasts to help the team decompress from the day.

According to ESPN, Molnar said, "I think we did important work. It was a rough night for some of the gymnasts, and I think Beacon helped celebrate the good stuff and be there and give support for the challenges."

Why it’s scientifically sweet to pet a pup

If you’re wondering whether there’s any science behind why scratching Beacon behind the ears feels so good, well, there’s plenty. Turns out, interacting with a dog can dial down the cortisol and pump up the serotonin and dopamine.

Unlike service dogs trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities (think guiding the visually impaired or alerting someone with diabetes to a drop in blood sugar), therapy dogs provide comfort to a broader audience—like soothing stressed-out students during finals week or calming nerves at the Olympics. They’re not assigned to one person; they’re there to share the love.

Athlete hugs Gus, an Olympic therapy dog via The New York Times

Therapy dogs also typically receive training to ensure they're calm and non-reactive in various environments, but it's less specialized than the task-specific training service dogs undergo. They're mainly selected for their chill vibes and friendly disposition.

If you're turning to one of these pups for support, you can expect benefits like lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, and an overall feeling of wellness, just a wag away.

More than a mascot

Following Beacon around, you’d think he’s a celebrity—and you wouldn’t be wrong. Starting off sharing a hotel suite with Callahan Molnar, Beacon’s day is a mix of planned meet-and-greets and impromptu therapy sessions. He’s not just lounging around waiting for belly rubs (though he does that, too); he’s a key player in the mental health strategy that helps these world-class athletes perform their best.

Despite the all-day hustle, Beacon’s after-hours are just as important. He gets his well-deserved downtime, which usually involves a decent dinner (sometimes with a side of blueberries) and a quiet evening stroll. Because even champions need to kick off their shoes—or in this case, their collar.

The paw pack

Beacon is part of a larger squad of therapy dogs at the Olympics, each providing stress relief and support. This team of soulful pups prove that a soft fur coat might be a secret ingredient for wellness. It's a refreshing shift in how we support athletes, recognizing that mental fitness should be prioritized as much as physical strength.

Larry, a therapy dog employed during the US Olympic swim trials via The Columbus Dispatch

Clearly, these dogs are doing more than just filling the role of a companion. They are official members of the Olympic family now. Next time you’re watching the games and spot a dog amidst the athletes, know that they’re not just there for the cute factor—they’re there to play a vital role in what might be the most stressful, exhilarating, and important moments of these athletes' careers.

Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.