Certified Pet Therapy Dogs Needed for James River Hospice Patients in Lynchburg, VA

Have you and your dog been Pet Therapy Certified? Would you, along with your therapy dog, like to visit with someone who had to give their dog away because of their increasing health issues? A love for a dog as well as the love from a dog never goes away, no matter how long the dog has been away. For many people, just being in the presence of a friendly, well-behaved, wet-nosed dog brings emotional support, comfort and peace.

You and your Certified Pet Therapy Dog can bring joy to one of James River Hospice's patients in and around the Lynchburg area. Our patients live in the standalone house where they raised their family, or an assisted living facility, with a family member in the family member's home, a nursing home or a memory care unit in a nursing home.

To become a James River Hospice Certified Pet Therapy Volunteer, you need to be 18 years of age or older. You will need to have a drug screen, a background check and a two-step TB test, all paid for by James River Hospice of Lynchburg. You will need to be BLS/CPR certified, provide proof that you and your dog have a pet therapy certification, proof that your dog's shot records are up to date, and the dog is licensed in the city or county where you live. (We are unable to accept cats or any other support animals at this time).

Is this a volunteer opportunity you'd like to pursue? Please sign up right here on Idealist to get started today!