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Therapeutic Dog Program
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Therapeutic Dog Program
The Therapeutic Dog Visitation program involves volunteers bringing their dog to visit patients residing in the hospital. This program is co-facilitated with the Recreation Therapist and provides interactive, stimulating activity that has been shown to get a response from patients who are withdrawn or have limited abilities. Therapy dogs provide an opportunity for patients to give and receive physical touch, display affection, and increase positive emotion.
Requirements & Desirable Characteristics of the Handler:
Minimum age requirement: 18 years and older
Reliable and trustworthy
Punctual, warm and caring, cheerful, patient and friendly
Interested in working with older adults
Ability to respect the privacy and feelings of others
Be a good listener
Ability to initiate a conversation
Successful competition of a Vulnerable Sector Police Clearance
TB Skin Test
Successful completion of RLMCMH screening appointment (volunteer and their dog will be evaluated by Hospital Staff to determine suitability for the program)
Requirements & Desirable Characteristics of the Dog:
Your dog should be tolerable to:
Strangers
Other dogs
Fast movements
Strange objects
Children
Loud noises
Slippery surfaces
Dog’s with the following temperaments are appropriate for this program:
Quiet
Friendly
Calm
Playful
The following core vaccinations for your dog are required:
Distemper
Parvovirus
Rabies
Canine Hepatitis
Commitment
Volunteers are asked to make regularly scheduled weekly or bi-weekly visits at a specified time for approximately one hour which will be tracked through a sign in & out sheet.