The key to safe, effective visits is the training for the “human end of the leash”– you. The Handler Training is not a therapy animal or therapy dog course on how to handle your pet. Instead, you’ll learn your responsibilities and expectations for successfully volunteering as a Pet Partners handler in any facility you wish to visit.
If you’re already thinking about pursuing animal training, good for you! But don’t forget, you – the handler – needs your own education to get registered. From best practices on visits to how to prepare for your evaluation, the Pet Partners Handler Course can be taken either in person, if a volunteer instructor lives in your area, or online. The in-person workshop is a great opportunity to ask questions of an experienced Pet Partners volunteer and make connections in your local community. However, there might not always be a course in your area at a time that works in your schedule, so the online course is a great alternative.
You must complete and pass either the online or in-person Handler Training before attending your team evaluation. The online Handler Training fee is $80.