Become a Volunteer

The key to safe, effective visits is the training for the “human end of the leash”– you. The Handler Training is not an animal training course. Instead, you’ll learn your responsibilities and expectations for successfully volunteering as a Pet Partners handler in any facility you wish to visit.

The training 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.

Our Animal Health Screening form will be signed by your veterinarian, confirming that your animal is healthy and able to participate in the program. The form is available as part of your online registration process. Only the official Pet Partners Animal Health Screening form is acceptable documentation to meet this requirement.

This is when you and your pet demonstrate that together you are able to conduct safe and effective visits. The team evaluation is a simulated therapy animal visit conducted by a Pet Partners volunteer team evaluator. Remember, you must complete and pass your Handler Course before the date of your team evaluation. Our event calendar contains currently scheduled team evaluations. Please don’t be discouraged if there is nothing scheduled in your area. Simply contact us and we’ll connect you with a local team evaluator. The fee for a team evaluation typically ranges from $15-$30.

To finish up, complete a background check via an email request from the Advocates at Sterling Volunteers on behalf of Pet Partners. The background check cost is included in your initial registration or registration renewal fee. There is no additional cost.