A Paw is What We Are Looking For- Pet Loving Volunteers wanted in Hillsborough County

Pet Volunteer Visitors and Pet Peace of Mind Volunteers Wanted-

Specially-trained pets and their owners team up to visit patients and families in our care center at St. Joseph's Hospital, nursing homes, assisted living facilities or patients’ homes throughout Hillsborough County. These pets can make an instant connection, bring joy and comfort and open a door for sharing pet stories and memories.

Eligible dogs, cats, rabbits or other pets must be evaluated and certified before placements.

**Breeds known for aggressive behavior are excluded, including Chow, Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Dalmatian, Pit Bull and others.**

Pet Requirements:

• Proof of pet’s health screening and vaccinations
• Certification by an approved evaluation organization (fees vary)

Contacts for getting Pet screened:

• Project P.U.P - "Pets Uplifting People"- provides screening and certification www.projectpup.net

• AKC Canine Good Citizens - To set up a Canine Good Citizen training class or an evaluation, visit AKC.org and click Canine Good Citizen under the Products and Services tab at the top of the page to find a evaluator in your area, Fees vary by evaluator.

Pet Peace of Mind Program- this program assists hospice patients & families with the care of their beloved pets at a time when they are least able to provide for them.

All volunteers are required to complete Empath Health's Volunteer Orientation (3-hours) and Patient & Family Support Training (6-hours).

***Empath Health Does Not Offer Volunteer Hours for Court Ordered Community Service***

To register for class and verify locations: Please call 727-523-3440. Registration ends three business days before the start of training.