Volunteer

About the Role :

The Volunteer Therapy Dog role is designed to provide emotional support and comfort to patients, visitors, and staff within healthcare settings through the presence and interaction of a well-trained therapy dog. This position aims to enhance the overall well-being and mental health of individuals by reducing stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. The therapy dog and handler team, accompanied by its handler, will visit various areas, such as recreation room, therapy gym, and patient rooms to engage with people in a compassionate and non-intrusive manner. The ultimate goal is to create a positive and calming environment that promotes healing and emotional resilience. This role requires a dedicated handler who can ensure the therapy dog’s behavior and health meet the highest standards for safety and effectiveness in therapeutic interactions.

Minimum Qualifications :

• Ownership of a well-socialized, calm, and healthy dog that has completed a recognized therapy dog certification program.
• Ability to commit to a regular volunteer schedule and follow facility guidelines and protocols.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact respectfully and empathetically with diverse populations including patients, families, and healthcare staff.
• Clear background check and any required health clearances as mandated by healthcare institutions.

Preferred Qualifications :

Responsibilities :

Skills :

The required skills include effective communication and empathy, which are essential for building trust and comfort with patients and staff during visits. Handlers must skillfully read both their dog’s and the patients’ cues to ensure interactions remain positive and safe. Knowledge of animal behavior helps in managing the therapy dog’s responses in various environments, preventing stress or discomfort. Preferred skills such as advanced training and experience enhance the quality and impact of therapy sessions, allowing for tailored interactions with different patient groups. Organizational and reporting skills support the ongoing improvement of the therapy dog program by providing valuable feedback and maintaining compliance with healthcare standards.

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