What's Up Doc! Patients Name SSMC Pediatrics Department Dalmatian Mascot

If you’ve visited South Shore Medical Center's Pediatrics Department in Norwell, you’ve no doubt seen the adorable Dalmatian dog figure keeping watch over the busy waiting room.

“The kids love to visit with our mascot Doc,” said Pediatrics Operations Manager, Deb McKinnon. 

Pediatric provider Caroline Smith, CNP, BA, PNP, spotted the Dalmatian in a consignment shop in Plymouth and thought it would be an ideal replacement for the department’s retired dog statue. 

"The kids were asking about the former dog we had and wondering where it was," said Smith, who couldn't resist adopting the striking Dalmatian statue. 

All of the providers pitched in to purchase the life-like pooch, which has been a huge hit with SSMC's young patients.

"It's so cute to watch the little ones petting, hugging and loving on him," Smith said.

Because children are attracted to the colors black and white, the Dalmatian turned out to be the perfect breed for the pediatrics department. But until recently, the popular pup didn’t have a name.

McKinnon said the staff came up with the idea to hold a naming contest, encouraging patients to pick out a moniker for the new mascot.

Dozens of patients put their suggestions down on paper and entered the contest. The office staff narrowed the list down to a few and ultimately chose Doc, the name suggested by pediatric patients, Chase and Finnian. 

The contest winners were both awarded a plush Dalmatian for naming Doc.