Bring Joy and Wagging Tails to Hospice Patients (Santa Clara County)

Bring Joy and Wagging Tails to Hospice Patients

Join Our Volunteer Team as a Certified Pet Therapy Pair

For someone in end-of-life care, the adorable head of a dog resting on a lap or the gentle presence of a trained therapy pet can accomplish what words sometimes cannot. Animals bring unconditional love, lower anxiety, ground patients in the moment, and bring bright smiles to patients, families, and hospice staff alike.

We are seeking certified Pet Therapy Teams (handler and certified animal) to offer gentle, comforting visits to hospice patients in our local community.

What You & Your Pet Will Do

• Provide Loving Companionship: Visit patients in private homes, assisted living communities, and skilled nursing facilities for quiet one-on-one visits.
• Bring Comfort & Calm: Allow patients to stroke, hold, or sit beside your therapy pet to reduce stress and pain perception.
• Support Loved Ones & Care Teams: Offer a welcome moment of joy and light to family members and healthcare staff.

Time Commitment & Schedule

We respect your schedule and your animal's well-being:

• Time Investment: Just 1 to 2 hours per week (or bi-weekly).
• Flexible Visits: Set visits based on your availability (weekday or weekend, mornings or afternoons).
• Visit Duration: Patient visits are kept brief (typically 30 minutes to 1 hour) to ensure pets remain comfortable and un-stressed.

Requirements & Clearances

To ensure the safety, health, and comfort of patients and therapy animals, teams must meet the following criteria:

• Pet Therapy Certification: Current certification through a recognized national or local therapy animal organization (e.g., Pet Partners, Alliance of Therapy Dogs, AKC Therapy Dog or local equivalent).
• Pet Health & Vaccinations: Up-to-date veterinary health records, including core vaccinations.
• Handler Background Check: Standard background clearance and reference checks.
• Health Screenings: Health screening and testing for the handler (provided at no cost)
• Hospice Orientation: Hospice volunteer orientation and training provided.

Share the Healing Power of Your Pet

If you and your certified animal companion have a gentle heart and love bringing happiness to others, we would love to welcome you to our hospice family.