AURORA, Colo. -- For more than three decades, dogs have been helping create smiles at Children’s Hospital Colorado as part of the Prescription Pet Program. There are about 50 dogs and volunteers in the program.

“We know it’s making a difference, every time we walk into one of those rooms,” said Judy Baxter, a volunteer.

Volunteers spend about two hours on any given visit to Children’s. She and her border collie/golden retriever mix named Kayla have been greeting families for 4 1/2 years.

“It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done,” Baxter said.

And if you watch Kayla when she arrives at the hospital, it’s clear she loves her job. There’s more spring in her step as she prances down the hallway.

“I signed her up on the waiting list when she was 6 months old," Baxter said.

Kayla trained for 1 1/2 years before she was accepted to the program. Now, at age 7, she helps train other dogs entering the program.

“Everybody just loves coming together around the dog,” Baxter said.

“It’s not just for the kids, it’s really just the whole floor that gets so excited when they have a dog come,” said Jalynne Collins, a nurse at the hospital.

Patients like 13-year-old Alejandro really look forward to  the pet visits. He immediately latched on to Kayla, scratching and petting her, even telling her, “You’re very good at your job.”

It’s moments like those that make Baxter's efforts more than worthwhile.

“A 13 year old boy hadn’t smiled today, but he did by getting a dog visit," Baxter said.

And Kayla loves it too.

“She has a smile doesn’t she? Look at her, she’s smiling,” Baxter said.

To become a part of the Prescription Pet Program, call the volunteer office at Children’s Hospital Colorado or .