Pet Visitor Volunteer & Petcare

Pet visitor volunteers assist with providing comfort and emotional support to patients and their families through therapeutic pet visits. There are two components to a pet visitor volunteer: the handler and the pet. It is most common that dogs are pet visitor volunteers; however, other pets (e.g., cats, miniature horses) may be considered pet volunteers as well. Animal–assisted interactions (which includes animal assisted activities or therapy) provide opportunities for motivational, educational, recreational and/or therapeutic benefits to enhance quality of life for patients and families. Animal-assisted interactions are delivered by specifically trained professionals, paraprofessionals, and/or volunteers in association with animals that meet specific criteria. These trained handlers have successfully completed an evaluation and training course that meets the requirements of an appropriate accrediting agency. Approved accrediting agencies include, Pet Partners, Project Canine, Therapy Dog’s International, or Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Other credentialing agencies are reviewed to ensure adherence to industry standards and approved by the volunteer coordinator. Documentation of credentialing is be kept in the handler’s personnel file in accordance with policy. Completion of a good citizen obedience program is not sufficient for pet utilization.