PAWS FOR PEOPLE

The Paws for People program delivers the unconditional love, comfort and proven therapeutic benefits of companion animals to residents of health care facilities. Currently, over 250 trained volunteers and their certified pets regularly visit close to one-hundred facilities throughout Northern New Jersey.

To be a member of Paws for People, pet owners must first attend a three hour workshop where all the policies and procedures of the PFP program will be reviewed.  Instruction on interacting with people with various disabilities and different types of health care residents, detecting signs of stress in your pet and guidelines for a successful visit will also be given.

Next, all animals must pass a handling and temperament evaluation. Dogs need to be at least one year of age, readily perform basic obedience skills and have the necessary temperament. During this simulation, hospital equipment will be used, loud noises will be made and interaction with another dog will occur. Your pet will also encounter other potential distractions such as food and people. All animals must be up to date on their rabies and distemper vaccinations (cats must have proof that they are feline leukemia negative) and have a current town license.   Cats, rabbits and all other domestic animals must be able to wear a leash and harness and be transported in a carrier.  Dogs are prohibited from wearing prong or choke collars during the evaluation and visits.  The Paws for People program is both personally enriching and a means to bond with your pet.

Prior to completing the application, please click here for a list of basic expectations we have of all our therapy pets.  Please click  here to view a copy of our evaluation.

Click on our application for information on our next PFP Workshop.

If you would like more information of pet therapy certification and/or want to be placed on our mailing list for our next workshop and test, contact volunteeroffice@sthuberts.org. 

If you would like information about how to become a general volunteer click here or contact the volunteer office at volunteeroffice@sthuberts.org or call 973-514-5920.

 

Paws for People certified volunteers click here