The animal therapist
-Must be calm and gentle and have a sweet, friendly, affectionate disposition.
-Should be well socialized with children and adults as well as other dogs
-Must be capable of entering new situations with confidence.
The animal cannot react negatively to loud noises, wheelchairs, medical carts or any of the other sights, sounds and smells of a hospital situation.
-Should have the stamina to complete an hour long visit.
-Formal obedience training is not a requirement, however the pet must be kept under excellent control and at the handler's side at all times.
An understanding of basic obedience commands is preferred,
but not required. A calm, friendly, outgoing personality is more important
than perfect performance.
-Animal therapist are limited to dogs, cats, guinea pigs and rabbits
-All dogs and cats must be at least one year old and have proof of all
required shots given by a veterinarian.
-All dogs and cats must have lived with their owner for 6 months
-All dogs and cats must remain on a leash during the entire visit.
-Cats must wear a harness and leash while visiting
-Rabbits and Guinea Pigs are carried in small baskets
The handler
-Must accept full responsibility for his/her animal's action and must be in complete control of the animal at all times.
-Must be willing to attend a minimum of 1 visit per month.
-Must be at least 18 years of age.
-Must enjoy meeting new people and adding joy to their lives.
-Must attend a mandatory orientation and pass the pet/handler evaluation
There is a $10.00 charge to attend an orientation
and advanced reservations are required to participate.
There is a $10.00 per animal charge to have a pet evaluated .
-Must satisfactorily complete a 4 visit probationary training period.
Membership initation fee is $30.00 and includes
VPP t-shirt, Photo ID badge, newsletter subscription and insurance
Annual membership dues are $25.00
and are due August 1st of each year.
