In order to be considered for the program, you and your dog/cat must meet the following requirements:
1. Your pet must be current on rabies and distemper and have a current negative stool check (within the last six months). Bordetella is also strongly recommended.
2. You must be 18 years of age.
3. You must attend a Volunteer Orientation session.
4. You must complete and pass an initial evaluation, which involves basic obedience skills and observing your pet around strangers in a nursing home environment.
5. You must be available 1-2 hours per month on regular basis.
Please complete the Application and return it to me at the address indicated on the form.
For more information, contact Katie Holschbach.
(Note: Before beginning the tests, the owner must provide current rabies certificate and licenses)
Test 1: Accepting a Friendly Stranger
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go to the evaluator.
Test 2: Sitting Politely for Petting
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler. The dog should sit and the handler’s side as the evaluator approaches and begins to pet the dog on the head and body only. The dog may stand in place to accept petting. The dog must not show shyness or resentment.
Test 3: Out for a Walk
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be on either side of the handler, whichever the handler prefers. There must be a left turn, a right turn and an about turn, with at least one stop in between and another at the end. The dog need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and need not sit when the handler stops.
Test 4: Walking Through a Crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). The dog may show some interest in the strangers, without appearing over exuberant, shy or resentful. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise the dog throughout the test. The dog should not be straining at the leash.
Test 5: Sit and Down on Command/Stating in Place
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler’s command to sit and down, and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). The handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command to make the dog sit and then down. When instructed by the elevator, the handler tells the dog to stay and walk forward the length of a 20-foot line. The dog must remain in place, but may change positions.
Test 6: Reaction to Another Dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 10 yards, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 5 yards. The dogs should show no more than a casual interest in each other.
Test 7: Reactions to Distractions
This test demonstrates that he dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations, such as the dropping of a large book or a jogger running in front of the dog. The dog also must remain confident when approached by wheelchairs and walkers. The dog may express a natural interest and curiosity and/or appear slightly startled, but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness or bark.
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