Our Human Volunteers
Welcome to our program and to the marvelous rewards and personal satisfaction gained
from a professionally structured
pet therapy program.
Our volunteers often express how personally rewarding and satisfying it is to share their pets, and to bring smiles to faces and joy into hearts - pets have a habit of doing that to people.
Who are our human volunteers and what training do they receive?
Our human volunteers are of all ages and are selected for their community spirit and availability to offer a committed, professional and reliable service on a regular basis. They are dedicated and committed to helping the frail, challenged and vulnerable in our community.
Our volunteers receive an initial training program and then continual on-going training and support. They are trained to:-
- Work closely with the facilities’ contact person, eg Diversional Therapist,Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist, Behavioural Therapist, Activities Officer
- Be aware of the Health and Safety rules and regulations within each facility
- Confidently and cheerfully interact with people with Dementia; the sight, hearing and speech impaired; the Stroke challenged, immobile and frail-aged; and the physically, emotionally and intellectually vulnerable
- Be aware of each individual’s needs and requirements regarding pet interaction, and for each individual to receive the most psychological, emotional, physical and social benefit and enjoyment from the pet
