CHIEF COMFORT OFFICER
MEET BUDDY ASTRO
Our resident Goldendoodle, Buddy Astro, is a certified therapy pooch. With a fluffy coat and friendly demeanor, Buddy makes the dental chair feel less scary, and more fun. Kids and parents appreciate his ability to turn nervous first visits into tail-wagging, positive experiences.
✳︎
8 Yrs. on Staff
✳︎
Certified & Well Trained
✳︎
∞ Hugs to Give
✳︎
1K Belly Rubs Received
✳︎ 8 Yrs. on Staff ✳︎ Certified & Well Trained ✳︎ ∞ Hugs to Give ✳︎ 1K Belly Rubs Received
COMFORT, CUDDLES, & CALMER VISITS
How Buddy Helps Make Kids Smile
Trained & Certified
Buddy completed therapy dog certification & follows strict hygiene protocols, so families get all the comfort with none of the worry.
Helps kids feel at ease
Research shows that companion animals help reduce stress & improve well-being. That's why therapy dogs like Buddy are part of healthcare settings from hospitals to dental offices all over the world.
Builds positive memories
Kids who associate the dentist with a friendly dog are more likely to feel excited (yes, excited!) about coming back for their next checkup.
WHAT FAMILIES SAY ABOUT BUDDY
Families give us 5 out of 5 stars, based on over 1,000 reviews.
"As a special needs parent, finding a dentist where my son feels safe is huge. Buddy makes every visit calm and joyful. We're so grateful.”
Amanda T.
My granddaughter gives them 7K stars! Buddy & Dolly (therapy dogs) were there to help ease her anxiety. She was apprehensive at first, but soon was chatting & making friends with everyone.
Debbie S.
“My daughter used to cry the whole drive over. Now she asks if Buddy will be there. He let her hold his paw the entire cleaning.”
Jessica M.
"Buddy is the reason my son stopped calling it 'the scary dentist. He now calls it 'the dog dentist' and packs treats for him."
David R.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT BUDDY
“How do I get Buddy at my appointment?”
1
Please let us know when you make your appointment so we can make sure Buddy will be at the office for your visit.
He does have a trainer mandated off-day during the week and can also be away for training or grooming appointments, so it’s important to request him when you schedule your appointment.
“What if my child isn’t comfortable around dogs?”
2
Maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for you and your family is very important to us! Buddy is trained to remain in specific areas to be mindful of those who may be uncomfortable around dogs.
Please let us know when you make your appointment if you do not want him for any reason and we will make sure Buddy is kept away from you during your visit.
“Is it safe to have a therapy animal in dental health care settings?”
3
We completely understand your concern about maintaining a clean and sterile environment with a dog in the office. Our team takes infection control and hygiene very seriously, and we follow strict protocols to ensure a safe, sanitary setting for every patient.
Research has shown that therapy animals, when properly groomed and supervised, do not increase the risk of infection in clinical settings.
That said, your comfort always comes first: you and Dr. Kwak can decide together whether having Buddy present during your child’s visit feels right for that day’s procedure.