Your dog has the power to brighten someone’s day.

With Pet Partners, your dog can bring calm, comfort, and connection to people in your community.

Is at least one year old.

Has lived with you for at least six months.

Enjoys meeting new people.

Has reliable basic manners.

Handles new situations with confidence.

Not sure? We'll guide you every step of the way.

People who have experienced crisis events

Veterans with PTSD

Seniors living with Alzheimer's

Students learning to read

Patients in the hospital

Where Therapy Dogs Volunteer

Those approaching the end of life

Reduce Stress

Lower stress hormones and promote calm.

Bring comfort and reduce feelings of lonliness.

Improve Mood

Help people open up and socialize.

Build Connection

Leading the field for nearly 50 years, Pet Partners literally wrote the book on therapy animal standards. We are the only national organization offering comprehensive education, evaluation, certification, and insurance, so you and your therapy dog can safely volunteer at any facility.

Education

Our online course prepares you for every part of the visit. You'll learn what to expect, how to read your animal's cues, and how to handle any situation with confidence.

National Support

From your first question to your last visit, our national team is with you every step of the way. No one else has the dedicated, professional staff to support volunteers the way we do.

Pet Partners therapy dogs are preferred by the top healthcare systems, school districts, nursing homes, and other facilities across the U.S. and Canada.

Volunteer Anywhere