Virtual dog brings joy to isolated kids in hospital trial

NCT ID NCT07187245

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Children's Hospital Colorado Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a mixed reality program called Reality PAWS, which lets children interact with a virtual dog through a VR headset, is a feasible and safe substitute for in-person dog therapy for kids in isolation. About 50 children aged 8 to 21 will use the program and answer surveys about their anxiety, pain, and loneliness. The goal is to see if this technology can improve their hospital experience.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Meta Quest 3 VR headset with Reality PAWS mixed reality dog program
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a safe, fun way to reduce loneliness and anxiety for children who can't have real animal visits due to isolation.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early feasibility study with only 50 participants. The virtual dog may not provide the same comfort as a real one, and some children might experience dizziness or discomfort from the VR headset.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

FEASIBILITY STUDIES INPATIENT PEDIATRIC CARE ISOLATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Hospital Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
RECRUITING

Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States
Children's Hospital Los Angeles
NOT_YET_RECRUITING

Los Angeles, California, 90027, United States

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