Meet Beacon, The Olympic Therapy Dog
Beacon, a four-year-old Golden Retriever, has become an essential member of the USA Gymnastics team, providing much-needed therapy and support to gymnasts. He played a significant role at the 2024 U.S. Olympic gymnastics trials and is sending his support to Paris from the US since travel complications stopped him from joining.
Beacon's Background and Role
Beacon, originally from California, quickly rose to fame after videos and pictures of him interacting with athletes went viral on social media.
Beacon's handler, Tracey Callahan Molnar, adopted him when he was eight weeks old during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges of transporting Beacon from Michigan to California, Molnar was determined to bring him home. "I changed my mind about it so many times, but I’d already seen pictures of him and made an emotional connection," she explained.
Becoming a Therapy Dog
Molnar, a former gymnastics coach, has a long history of volunteerism and previously had another Golden Retriever, Tulsa, who served as a therapy dog for over six years. After Tulsa's passing, Molnar missed providing pet therapy and hoped that Beacon would enjoy the role. Fortunately, Beacon exhibited a natural affinity for people and excelled as a therapy dog.
"Beacon gravitates to people," Molnar said. "He likes dogs a lot, but he loves people. I think he’s very good at sensing stress in people."
Beacon's journey as a therapy dog officially began when he was certified through Pet Partners. His training and temperament made him well-suited for the role, and his impact on the athletes was immediately evident.
Jill Geer, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at USA Gymnastics, highlighted Beacon's popularity, stating, "There are several other dogs, but Beacon is 100% the star of the show. He is literally the beacon of this program."
Impact at the Olympic Trials
Molnar has been associated with USA Gymnastics for over 40 years and has a strong relationship with Caroline Hunt, Vice President of the Rhythmic Gymnastics Program. Hunt introduced the dog therapy program in February 2023, inspired by a previous event she attended.
Initially, there was some skepticism about the program, but many saw its benefits after witnessing the positive effects on the gymnasts. "They heard their daughters or gymnasts talk about how much better and calmer they felt after spending time with the therapy dogs," Molnar said.
At the U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Fort Worth, Texas, approximately 16 therapy dogs participated, with Beacon leading the charge. Jill Geer explained that the pet therapy program is part of a broader initiative to support athletes' mental and physical health. "Our athletes have consistently told us they want more mental health and nutritional support," Geer said. "The therapy dog program is the cutest, happiest, most fantastic part of those efforts."
Beacon's role was crucial during the high-stress environment of the Olympic trials. His calming presence helped athletes manage anxiety and focus better on their performances. Molnar noted, "Science shows petting a dog or even watching someone pet a dog can lower blood pressure and anxiety, help increase the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine, and lower cortisol levels."
While efforts to bring Beacon to Paris for the Olympics were made, logistical issues prevented it. Molnar expressed her disappointment on Instagram, stating, "Beacon and I will be cheering our Olympians on from California and hope that @usagym and @teamusa hear us loud and clear all the way in Paris!"
Beacon is not only a dedicated therapy dog but also has some unique habits. He loves frozen treats, swimming, and, amusingly, sitting in the refrigerator to cool off. Molnar has even rearranged her fridge to accommodate this quirky habit, allowing Beacon to stay inside for a few minutes before gently shooing him out.
Beacon's Impact and Legacy
The introduction of pet therapy into the gymnastics program has been widely praised, and Beacon has become a symbol of this innovative approach to athlete wellness. His impact extends beyond the gymnasts to coaches, staff, and even fans who have followed his journey on social media.
For more information on the Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls, visit TeamUSA.com and stay updated on ongoing coverage before, during, and after the games. Watch the Paris Olympics and Paralympics, beginning July 26, on NBC and Peacock.
