Golden Retriever Joined Salem Hospital Volunteer Team
An 11-year-old dog has become a regular fixture at the hospital alongside his owner.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Dogs
An 11-year-old Golden Retriever named Kimber has joined the volunteer staff at Salem Hospital. The dog visits patients and staff regularly while accompanied by his owner, Eric Schuman.
Why it matters
The presence of therapy animals can provide comfort and stress relief to patients and medical staff within a hospital environment. This volunteer partnership highlights the role of animal-assisted interaction in local healthcare settings.
Kimber is an 11-year-old Golden Retriever, while his owner and fellow volunteer Eric Schuman is 78 years old. Schuman, a retired physician associate, has contributed five years of service to Salem Hospital.
The players
Kimber
Kimber is an 11-year-old Golden Retriever who serves as a volunteer at Salem Hospital.
Eric Schuman
Eric Schuman is a 78-year-old retired physician associate who has volunteered at Salem Hospital for five years.
Salem Hospital
Salem Hospital is the local healthcare facility where Kimber and Eric Schuman provide volunteer services.
The details
Kimber maintains a professional appearance during his shifts by wearing a purple collar adorned with an official hospital identification badge. His owner, Eric Schuman, remains by his side holding the leash throughout their time at the facility.
Timeline
Eric Schuman began his volunteer service at Salem Hospital in 2021.
Culture Shift
This volunteer effort reflects a broader societal shift toward integrating animal-assisted interactions into professional healthcare environments to improve patient morale. It highlights a departure from strictly clinical hospital atmospheres toward more holistic wellness-focused models.
Residents and patients visiting Salem Hospital may encounter Kimber during their time at the facility. The pair provides a consistent presence for those seeking comfort during their hospital stay or work shift.
The takeaway
Volunteering with a pet can be a rewarding way for seniors to remain active and connected within their community. Consider reaching out to your local medical or care facilities if you and your dog are interested in learning about volunteer therapy programs.
Further reading
Learn more about the role of canines in our community by browsing our local Dogs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Salem Reporter.
