Is there a fee for Paws for Therapy to come out to visit a facility?
No. There is never a fee associated with our services.
Do you allow volunteers without a dog, or a dog without the owner?
We only allow teams (owner + dog) to volunteer with us.
If I’m already in a pet therapy group, can I still join Paws for Therapy?
We have no problem with volunteers being in other pet therapy organizations.
Is a CGC (Canine Good Citizen) required to become a Paws for Therapy dog?
Yes. In order to become a volunteer team with Paws for Therapy your dog needs to have passed the CGC (Canine Good Citizen) training.
Can my Paws for Therapy dog come to work with me as a therapy dog?
We do not allow our volunteers to take their pet to work with them as a therapy dog representing Paws for Therapy. This pertains to both counselors/teachers/therapists as well as a volunteer attending a visit at their own workplace.
Are kids of Paws for Therapy volunteers allowed to join us on a visit?
Yes! Kids are allowed to go with their parents to two types of facilities – nursing homes and libraries.
If I know someone within Paws for Therapy, can I just have them come out?
Our leadership needs to know and approve all visits. Please understand that we have an obligation to reduce liability as much as possible. Submit a request through the “Contact Us!” form.
What’s the difference between a service dog and a therapy dog?
Service animals assist in their handler’s disabilities. The animal is extensively trained to perform tasks and help based on the handlers’ physical or mental issues/abilities. Typically, service animals are not to be petted as their job is to take care of their handler. Therapy animals also go through training but with a different job in mind. Therapy animals are trained to be around other people and want to be petted. They are meant for others to enjoy, not just their owner. Therapy animals do not have the same rights as service dogs.