Pet Therapy Volunteer

Pet therapy volunteers assist with providing comfort and emotional support to patients and their families through therapeutic pet visits. There are two components to a pet visitor volunteer: the handler and the pet. It is most common that dogs are pet visitor volunteers: however other pets may be considered on an individual basis. Animal -assisted interactions (which includes animal assisted activities and therapy) provide motivational, educational, recreational and/or therapeutic benefits. to enhance the quality of life for patients and families. Animal assisted interactions are delivered by specifically trained professionals, paraprofessionals and/or volunteers in association with animals that meet the specific criteria. These trained handlers have successfully completed an evaluation and training course that meets the requirements of an appropriate accrediting agency. Approved Agencies include Pet Partners, Project Canine, Therapy Dog's international Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Other credentialed agencies are reviewed to ensure adherence to industry standards and approved by the volunteer coordinator.