Hospice Volunteering (Pet Therapy) - Sometimes the best medicine has fur and paws

Your Therapy Dog & You Can Volunteer with Heartland Hospice Akron

• Be part of our hospice volunteer team in caring for patients with dignity and love
• Sit beside someone in their final chapter with quiet companionship
• Help families exhale in tender moments
• Spark smiles and memories with a gentle nuzzle
• Bring warmth and peace into rooms heavy with illness

What You’ll Need

• A dog certified through an AKC-recognized therapy organization
• Current vaccinations (Rabies and Distemper)

Details

• Patient Visits: Therapy dogs and their handlers visit patients in private homes, nursing facilities, or assisted living centers.
• Benefits: Visits help reduce stress and anxiety, ease feelings of isolation, encourage communication, and provide tactile comfort.
• Scheduling: Volunteer shifts offer flexible scheduling based on your personal availability.

Requirements to Volunteer with Your Dog

• Certification: Your dog must be certified or registered through an American Kennel Club (AKC)-recognized therapy dog organization.
• Health and Records: Dogs must be current on required vaccinations (such as Rabies and Distemper) and maintain health documentation.
• Handler Screening: Human handlers must be at least 18 years old and pass standard background checks, drug screenings, and TB testing provided through Heartland Hospice.