Joining Dr. Dog Program - Volunteer Requirements

Volunteer Requirements:-

• Must be over the age of 18,
• Must be clean and presentable at all times,
• Must be committed to the program and its aims,
• Must have good "people skills" and an enthusiastic personality,
• Must be willing to be a part of a team and enjoy meeting new people,
• Must be sensitive to each patient's needs and cultural and social background. (Be open and understand that patients may want to talk to you, or only to your dog),
• Should use open-ended leading questions,
• Should gently encourage interaction,
• Should be good listeners,
• Should be patient,
• Should assess their own personal needs - Are you comfortable with severely disabled people? Do you have a preference to visit certain groups such as the elderly or children?
• Should respect people's choices - some people may be nervous or frightened and need gentle encouragement, whilst others may have no wish to meet with your dog and should be given their space accordingly.