Join PeTS
Ways to volunteer
Casual volunteering
Casual volunteers make a big difference at PeTS and in the communities we serve. This option is ideal if you are interested in pet therapy, but you may have a pet that is too young, or you may not be able to commit to the ratification process, or you’re just looking for a way to give back. Casual volunteers must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with a parent or guardian’s permission), do not pay membership fees, and do not vote on PeTS matters. Register at the link below and we will contact you when volunteers are needed. You will also start receiving the PeTS monthly newsletter.
Some of our casual volunteer opportunities include:
- Event and fundraising support
- Organizing social events
- Programming support
General volunteering
Register as a general volunteer if you are interested in performing pet therapy visits at our partner facilities. Becoming a general volunteer is one of the first steps in the PeTS ratification process. General volunteers pay a $30 annual membership fee and can vote on PeTS matters.
There are many benefits for general volunteers, here are just a few:
- Training and mentorship
- Leadership opportunities
- Insurance coverage during pet therapy visits
- In the case of hardship, access to a volunteer emergency fund
- Community of like-minded people
General volunteering eligibility criteria
Animals
- Pet dogs or cats. All breeds are welcome. Service or other working dogs are not eligible.
- At least two-years-old at the time of their first prescreen evaluation.
- Friendly with people of all ages, genders, and races, and enjoys interacting with strangers.
- Not aggressive towards animals of all sizes and species.
- Behaves politely in new places. No barking, marking, or stealing the silverware.
- In good health, free of parasites and not taking antibiotics for a minimum of seven days prior to PeTS events.
- Dogs are expected to have basic obedience skills, such as the ability to walk on a loose leash, comfortable with crowds and meeting new people.
Handlers
- At least 18 years old. Junior handlers (16) are permitted but must be in the company of an adult PeTS member at all PeTS events.
- Bonded with their animal for at least six months prior to the initial prescreen evaluation.
- Act according to the PeTS Code of Ethics and with all policies of PeTS and partner facilities.
- Able to complete the PeTS ratification process.
Please note that some of our partner facilities require volunteers to have a clear Intervention Record Check and/or Vulnerable Sector Police Information Check.