Pet Therapy Certified? Our Hospice Patients Need You!

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Traditions Health (TH) Hospice is seeking compassionate Pet Therapy Volunteers to visit with patients/families in a hospice patient setting; both in patient homes and healthcare facilities. Must hold current certification in a nationally recognized AKC Pet Therapy Program (e.g., Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Pet Partners, Love on a Leash, Therapy Dogs International, etc.), and must be current with required MS state animal vaccinations. Working in a healthcare setting, there is strict adherence to confidentialities/HIPAA. Ongoing training is provided.

Essential Functions/Skills:

• Volunteers and dog must be open to providing visits at various patient and facility locations.
• Provide compassionate companionship
• Ability to introduce pet and engage in conversations meant to engage patient/family.
• Must possess effective and empathic listening skills.
• Must hold current certification in a nationally recognized AKC Pet Therapy Program
• Promote positive, supportive, respectful communication to patient/family and staff members,
• Provide an environment which promotes respect for patient, privacy, and property.
• Must possess a high degree of empathy and compassion as at times volunteer and pet may be in environments where end-of-life and bereavement events are at hand.
• Must be able and comfortable serving diverse groups and cultures.

Expect a rigorous background application process (fingerprints required), physical, TB and drug test, and training required for healthcare settings (Traditions Health incurs costs for physical and testing). But ask yourself, "Would I want anything less for my family member, with a volunteer in my home or with my vulnerable loved ones?"

Did you know that volunteers are required for hospice programs by the centers for Medicare and Medicaid, and that they play a crucial role as part of a hospice care team? Are you ready to become part of our team? Contact us for more information about how you can make a difference to the patients and families we serve. Traditions Health Hospice is waiting to hear from you!

Jenny Johnstone-Smith
Volunteer Coordinator