Opportunities From: VolunteerICT

This opportunity is only for people who have their own certified therapy pet. Therapy pets encourage positive interaction and offer a calming atmosphere. Children learn care and ways to be safe around pets. Pets can stimulate a child's language and increase vocabulary, motivates a child in physical and occupational therapy and receives unconditional acceptance from therapy pets.

Requirements for Therapy Animal TeamsAll therapy animal teams must:Be currently registered and in good standing with a recognized therapy animal organization, such as:Pet PartnersAlliance of Therapy DogsTherapy Dogs InternationalProvide proof of:Current registrationLiability insurance (if not covered by the registering organization)Up-to-date vaccinations and annual veterinary clearanceComplete Rainbows United volunteer requirements, which may include:Volunteer applicationBackground checkOrientation/trainingConfidentiality agreementRemain under the control of the handler at all times (leashed or otherwise appropriately restrained).Health and Safety StandardsTherapy animals must be clean, groomed, and free of illness or parasites prior to visits.Animals showing signs of stress, illness, or behavioral concerns must not participate.Visits will be coordinated in advance with program leadership.Participants with allergies, fear of animals, or medical contraindications will not be required to interact.Hand hygiene protocols must be followed before and after animal contact.