Beacon, the golden retriever who serves as the U.S. Olympic gymnastics team’s therapy dog, remains hospitalized while his owner continues to search for answers regarding his health.
In a heartfelt update shared on September 6, Tracey Callahan Molnar revealed that her 4-year-old companion was "tired but still eager for gentle hugs, pets, and conversation" during her visit to the hospital.
“We still don’t have definitive answers,” Molnar wrote in an Instagram post, accompanied by a video montage of Beacon. She explained that the dog has had to undergo several procedures, including the removal of fluid from his chest cavity multiple times. During a recent procedure, doctors took tissue samples from Beacon's lungs after concerns were raised by a CT scan. Two ports were placed to help drain the fluid more easily, a process Molnar will soon learn to manage from home.
The biopsy results are expected to take five to seven days.
Earlier, on September 4, Molnar announced on Instagram that Beacon had been taken to the hospital, describing it as "an incredibly difficult post to make." She shared that Beacon had been admitted to an emergency pet hospital on September 3 after showing alarming symptoms, including stiffness, labored breathing, and a fever. Despite treatment efforts—including anti-inflammatory medications and cold laser therapy—Beacon's condition had not improved. X-rays revealed fluid in his chest cavity, contributing to his breathing difficulties.
"The high fever was a significant concern for his vet," Molnar noted. The decision was made to transfer Beacon to a specialized emergency hospital for further diagnostics and treatment.
While Beacon has undergone several tests, Molnar said there are still more to come. "There are many potential causes, so we need to rule out several things," she explained, assuring followers she would keep them updated.
Molnar, who manages Beacon’s Instagram page with over 50,000 followers, has asked for continued well-wishes for the therapy dog. "Send your good thoughts, prayers, virtual hugs—whatever feels right to you," she requested.
Beacon is more than just a therapy dog; he’s a beloved figure in the world of sports. Known for his calming presence, Beacon gained widespread affection during the 2024 U.S. Olympic gymnastics team trials in June. As the team's first-ever therapy dog, he has worked closely with stars like Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, and Olympic legends Aly Raisman and Laurie Hernandez. His Instagram features countless snapshots of him comforting athletes, proving his impact on those he supports.
In an interview with ESPN, Molnar described Beacon as an “emotional sponge” who helps athletes manage their stress. “Therapy dogs absorb the stress of those they’re supporting,” she explained. "Even if he’s just lying there for hours, he’s completely wiped out afterwards."
Though logistics prevented Beacon from joining Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, his spirit remained strong. On July 22, Molnar shared on Instagram, "Beacon and I will be cheering on our Olympians from California." Fans soon flooded Beacon with Olympics-themed gifts, and in late August, he continued his therapy work at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center in Lake Placid, New York.
As Beacon continues his fight, fans across the world are sending their love and support, eagerly awaiting more positive news about the pup who has brought comfort to so many.