Pet Therapy

K9 Community Outreach Pet Visitation Program

Our qualified visitation teams (owner plus dog) create a legacy of caring by providing regular therapeutic pet visits to seniors, children and community members who benefit from meaningful interactions with our volunteer service dogs.

Interactions with companion animals are known to provide many positive health results including: lower blood pressure, calming agitation and anxiety, stimulating creativity and interaction. 

Currently over 40 volunteer teams visit locations such as hospitals, long-term care centers, nursing homes and other community agencies where there is a need.  We are proud to provide such an important program that is proven to offer companionship, comfort, joy, healing, and compassionate support to hundreds of people every year.  

 

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How do I become a volunteer in the program?
Being a Qualified K9 Companion is probably one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have as a volunteer.  Both dog and handler must be very comfortable in the company of people as you are both there to provide a service of companionship to those you meet.  
Minimum Qualifications
  • Pet handlers must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
  • Volunteers should be willing to make a minimum 3 month commitment to the program.
  • Volunteers will be asked to provide a Criminal Records Check for the vulnerable persons sector.
  • Visitation animals must be at least one year of age and have up-to-date immunizations.
  • Pet handlers shall have owned their animal for a minimum of 6 months.

    • Visitation teams must pass the CA Humane evaluation process prior to being admitted to the K9 Community Outreach Program.  Partner facilities are putting their trust in us to provide well mannered pets with the very best temperament.

    This is not an obedience test - our visiting pets should be well mannered, love people and be well socialized (i.e. new things are ok). Dogs must wear a flat buckle or snap collar - no promise collars, prong collars, harnesses, halties or choke chains permitted.

    Animals who, during the evaluation, behave in a negative way towards other dogs, people or props that are part of the evaluation will not pass the evaluation successfully. Negative behaviours may include: relieving or "piddling", barking, showing any signs of aggression, showing any signs of fear, lack of interest in strangers or other humans except for their owner, etc.

    If you are interested in the program and would like to learn more, please contact our Community Outreach Coordinator via email: [email protected] or by phone at 403-342-7722.