Four-legged friend brings smiles to Genesee County dental office
Khan reporting for duty.
BATAVIA, N.Y. – Batavia Family Dental added a new team member in 2021 who quickly became a favorite among patients and staff. Khan is a sweet-natured standard-size poodle who has been doggedly coming to work with Dr. Steve Sokolovskiy every day.
Khan is extremely smart, a quick study, and takes his job very seriously. He goes from room to room soothing nervous patients and bringing smiles to children and adults alike. He got his name from the movie “The Wrath of Khan,” yes, Dr. Steve is a Trekkie!
Dr. Steve hosted Khan’s uncle Bailey for a few weeks in 2021. Bailey is a kind-spirited therapy dog who comforts patients attending a local pain management clinic. While he was at the dental office, everyone enjoyed his company so much that Dr. Steve jumped at the opportunity to get a puppy from Bailey’s sister’s litter … and that’s when the office got its most popular team member.
Studies show that interacting with animals can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression. Hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, schools, and offices are now benefitting from the healing power of animals.