The Pet Therapy Volunteer serves as an additional support to patients, families and caregivers by making friendly visits with the certified therapy animal. Visits may occur in the patient’s home or in a professional care setting (subject to the rules of the facility). The majority of animals serving in this capacity will be a dog. Both the Volunteer and the certified therapy animal provide comfort, companionship and a welcome distraction from the illness.
The dog must be certified/ registered by an American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized therapy dog organization(http://www.akc.org/events/title-recognition-program/therapy/organizations/). Other certified/registered therapy animals will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. All required vaccinations must be up to date and copies of the vaccinations/ medical evaluation. Required vaccines include Rabies and Distemper. A copy of the current certification/registration, in addition to the liability insurance coverage, must also be maintained. Our number 417-212-0888.