Position Title: Volunteer Therapy Dog Team
Location: Various locations as assigned by Corus Hospice Volunteer Coordinator
*Albuquerque, and surrounding locations*
Position Summary: Volunteer Therapy Dog Teams provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support to individuals in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and rehabilitation centers. These teams consist of a trained therapy dog and their handler, who work together to uplift spirits, reduce stress, and promote well-being in those they visit.
Key Responsibilities:
- Visitations: Participate in scheduled visits to facilities or institutions where therapy dog services are requested.
- Engagement: Interact with patients, residents, students, or clients in a friendly and non-intrusive manner, allowing them to pet, cuddle, or simply enjoy the presence of the therapy dog.
- Observation: Pay attention to the needs and reactions of the individuals being visited, and adjust interactions accordingly to ensure a positive experience for all involved.
- Maintain Professionalism: Adhere to the policies and guidelines set forth by the organization or facility being visited, including respecting patient privacy and maintaining proper hygiene and cleanliness standards.
- Promote Therapy Dog Program: Serve as ambassadors for the therapy dog program, educating others about the benefits of animal-assisted therapy and advocating for the well-being of therapy animals.
- Training and Certification: Regularly attend training sessions and ensure that the therapy dog is certified and up-to-date on vaccinations and health screenings as required by the organization.
Qualifications:
- Therapy Dog Certification: The therapy dog must be certified by a reputable therapy dog organization or have undergone formal therapy dog training.
- Handler Training: The handler must be trained in handling and managing a therapy dog, including understanding canine behavior and communication cues.
- Good Temperament: The therapy dog must demonstrate a calm, friendly, and well-mannered demeanor, with a gentle disposition suitable for interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds.
- Reliability: Both the therapy dog and handler must be reliable and punctual, committing to scheduled visitations and maintaining a consistent presence in the program.
- Compassion: Both the therapy dog and handler should have a genuine desire to bring joy and comfort to others and possess a compassionate and empathetic attitude toward those they serve.
Time Commitment: Flexible scheduling, with volunteer teams typically asked to commit to a minimum of one visitation session per month
How to Apply: Interested individuals should contact the volunteer coordinator at 505-828-0232 to inquire about volunteer opportunities for therapy dog teams and to receive information on the application process and training requirements, or apply at CORUS HEALTH - Hospice Volunteer
