Virtual dog brings joy to isolated kids in hospital trial
NCT ID NCT07187245
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
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.
Disclaimer
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Children's Hospital Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
RECRUITINGAurora, Colorado, 80045, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact
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Children's Hospital Los Angeles
NOT_YET_RECRUITINGLos Angeles, California, 90027, United States
Contact
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••