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 $30.00 and are due August 1st of each year