Pet Therapy Society of Northern Alberta

Ways to Volunteer

Casual Volunteering

Casual volunteers make a big difference at PeTS and in the communities we serve. This option is ideal if you are interested in pet therapy, but you may have a pet that is too young, or you may not be able to commit to the ratification process, or you’re just looking for a way to give back. Casual volunteers must be at least 18 years old (or 16 with a parent or guardian’s permission), do not pay membership fees, and do not vote on PeTS matters. Register at the link below and we will contact you when volunteers are needed. You will also start receiving the PeTS monthly newsletter.

Some of our casual volunteer opportunities include:

Event and fundraising support
Organizing social events
Programming support

General Volunteering

Register as a general volunteer if you are interested in performing pet therapy visits at our partner facilities. Becoming a general volunteer is one of the first steps in the PeTS ratification process. General volunteers pay a $30 annual membership fee and can vote on PeTS matters.

There are many benefits for general volunteers, here are just a few:

Training and mentorship
Leadership opportunities
Insurance coverage during pet therapy visits
Community of like-minded people

VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION

REQUIREMENTS

General Volunteering Eligibility Criteria

Animal Requirements

Pet dogs or cats. All breeds are welcome. Service or other working dogs are not eligible.
At least two-years-old at the time of their first prescreen evaluation.
Friendly with people of all ages, genders, and races, and enjoys interacting with strangers.
Not aggressive towards animals of all sizes and species.
Behaves politely in new places. No barking, marking, or stealing the silverware.
In good health, free of parasites and not taking antibiotics for a minimum of seven days prior to PeTS events.
Dogs are expected to have basic obedience skills, such as the ability to walk on a loose leash, comfortable with crowds and meeting new people.

Handler Requirements

At least 18 years old. Junior handlers (16) are permitted but must be in the company of an adult PeTS member at all PeTS events.
Bonded with their animal for at least six months prior to the initial prescreen evaluation.
Act accordingly with all policies of PeTS and partner facilities.
Able to complete the PeTS ratification process.

Please note that some partner facilities may require volunteers to complete an additional criminal record check and/or vulnerable sector check before participating in visits at their location.