Doctor Peyo, the horse that accompanies terminally ill patients in French hospitals

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This equine has accompanied more than a thousand patients in the final stages of their lives. Photo: Instagram: @docteur_peyo

At Calais Hospital in northern France, a horse named Peyo has transformed the way palliative care is provided.

Since 2016, this equine has accompanied more than a thousand patients in the final stages of their lives , establishing a deep emotional connection with each of them.

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His keeper, Hassen Bouchakour, discovered Peyo's unique sensitivity when he noticed that the animal would spontaneously stop in front of sick people, as if sensing their suffering.

To enter the hospital, Peyo undergoes a rigorous health protocol. Trained to communicate using signals, he can use one of his paws to point to rooms where patients need comfort.

These visits are carried out within the framework of the Les Sabots du Coeur organization's program, which promotes animal-assisted therapies.

This impact also extends to family members and healthcare workers. Photo: Instagram: @docteur_peyo

The horse's presence has had documented positive effects. According to hospital staff, its company has helped reduce anxiety, feelings of loneliness, and, in some cases, the use of painkillers.

This impact also extends to family members and healthcare workers, who benefit from the calm atmosphere their presence creates.

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Hassen Bouchakour left his professional career to dedicate himself fully to Peyo's care and hospital visits.

Through her Instagram account, she shares reflections on end-of-life support. “ A year with 186 fascinating souls who rest in peace today ,” she wrote in one of her posts.

In another, he dedicated a few words to Thérèse, a patient who died next to the horse: “This is how I wanted to die (…) between gratitude and laughter.”

Outside the hospital setting, Peyo lives freely, in contact with nature, and receives constant care. His visits are voluntary and are scheduled based on his emotional and physical condition.

The use of animals as part of palliative care is supported by medical studies. Experts point out that their companionship stimulates the release of endorphins and oxytocin, substances that help relieve pain and anxiety.

**This content was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on publicly available information released to media outlets. It was also reviewed by a journalist and an editor.

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