Pet Therapy Volunteer (Heartland Hospice) (Chilton)

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The Pet Therapy Volunteer serves as an additional support to patients, families and caregivers by making friendly visits with his/her certified therapy animal. Visits may occur in the patient’s home or in a professional care setting (subject to the rules of the facility). Both the Volunteer and the certified therapy animal provide comfort, companionship and a welcome distraction from the illness.

QUALIFICATIONS
PET: The majority of animals serving in this capacity will be a dog. The dog must be certified/ registered by an American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized therapy dog organization
(http://www.akc.org/events/title-recognition-program/therapy/organizations/). Other certified/
registered therapy animals will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. All required vaccinations must be up to date and copies of the vaccinations/ medical evaluation must be maintained in the Volunteer’s Personnel File; required vaccines include Rabies and Distemper. A copy of the current certification/ registration, in addition to the liability insurance coverage, must also be maintained.

This is a flexible opportunity and the volunteer can always decline requests. Training and ongoing support are provided. Emphasis is on providing comfort during the dying process. Questions? Call or email us at 1-800-236-1989 or 920-926-1144 or samantha.urbas@heartlandhospice.com to learn more.

Requirements: Must be 18 years or older; agree to a background/reference check; and attend an orientation to learn more about the philosophy of hospice and our company; the role of the volunteer, and how to communicate with hospice patients and their families. Must be appropriately coping with any personal losses, good communication skills, sound judgment regarding issues of death and dying, and the ability to work independently with indirect supervision. Travel to homes or facilities in your community is required for this volunteer opportunity, so volunteers must have some form of reliable transportation. Proof of auto insurance and drivers license or state ID required.