Questions we hear often

Therapy dogs are household pets whose owners take time to visit hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers and other facilities. They help people who are away from home due to mental or physical illness. A visit from a therapy dog can brighten the day, lift spirits and help motivate someone in their treatment.

Service dogs are trained to assist the specific needs of their owner — audio or visual impairment, mobility assistance, allergy or seizure response, and some psychiatric conditions. A therapy dog is different: calm, affectionate and friendly, it provides comfort and companionship to many people who are staying in hospitals, nursing homes and similar settings.

Animal-assisted activities (AAA) provide motivational, educational and recreational benefits that enhance quality of life. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is a goal-directed intervention delivered or directed by a health or human service professional as part of a treatment plan. Our teams take part in both, plus the R.E.A.D. reading program and visits supporting service members and veterans.

Post Traumatic Stress and Traumatic Brain Injury affect not only the person but everyone around them. Specially trained therapy dogs work with wounded warriors returning from deployment to provide safety and comfort during the healing process.

Absolutely. We are always looking for volunteers to help with special events and regular group tasks — handing out brochures, setting up tables, website maintenance, marketing, social media and more. Tell us your talents and we'll tell you how you can contribute. Volunteers must be at least 13; those aged 13–17 need a parent or guardian volunteering with them.

It's important to know what pet therapy involves before deciding whether you and your dog would make a good team. Our Become a Team page walks through evaluation, training, testing and what happens after certification.