Volunteering With Your Dog
The Volunteer Dog Program brings comfort, joy, and emotional support to patients and families across all hospital campuses. Both dogs and their dedicated handlers serve as hospital volunteers, offering compassionate visits. These interactions provide a calming presence, reduce stress and anxiety, and create a sense of normalcy for patients during what can be a challenging time.
In addition to cuddles and companionship, volunteer dog teams help brighten the hospital environment for staff, visitors, and patients alike, often becoming a highlight of the day. Handlers work closely with hospital staff to ensure each visit is safe, meaningful, and tailored to the needs of the individuals they serve.
Note: Our Volunteer Dog Program is different than our Canine Comfort Program where full-time facility dogs work alongside hospital staff.
What Does it Take to be a Dog Volunteer?
- To serve as a volunteer, you must be at least 21 years old, commit to at least one year of service and visit the hospital with your dog at least two times each month.
- Dogs ages 1 to 9 years will be considered for the Volunteer Dog Program.
What are the Evaluation Requirements?
- Reliable Basic Obedience
- Responds consistently to basic commands: sit, stay, down, come, without treats/food.
- Walks politely on a loose leash without pulling or lunging.
- Good Manners Around People and Other Dogs
- Doesn't jump on people, paw, or lick
- Is non-reactive and calm around other dogs, no barking, growling, or lunging.
- Friendly and Sociable Temperament
- Actively seeks out engagement with people (e.g., leans in for petting, wags tail, shows relaxed body language).
- Tolerates being touched on all parts of the body (ears, paws, tail, mouth).
- Does not show fear, avoidance, or aggression toward people.
- Calm Demeanor in Various Environments
- Doesn't jump on people, paw, or lick.
- Able to remain calm in crowded, noisy, or unfamiliar environments.
