Job Description

Job Overview

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a difference to patients in the Inpatient Unit and their families through pet therapy. By visiting with your dog, you can help enhance wellbeing and provide emotional support for those who find comfort with pets.

To be eligible for this role, your dog must be registered with a UK recognised pet therapy organisation. This ensures they have been assessed for suitability, demonstrating calmness, gentleness and appropriate behaviour in various environments. You must also hold the necessary assessment documentation as proof of their registration as a therapy dog.

Main Duties

As part of the volunteer therapy pet team, you and your dog will provide companionship, emotional support and a comforting presence for patients, families, visitors and staff. Your role will be to engage with patients based on their needs, offering a friendly ear and allowing your dog to interact in a safe and appropriate manner.

Interact with the patients and their families to provide comfort and companionship. Have a calm, approachable, and patient manner at all times. Promote relaxation, emotional wellbeing and moments of joy through pet interaction. Ensure your dog remains harnessed, well-managed and comfortable throughout visits. Be attentive to your dogs needs and respond accordingly to maintain their welfare. Accurately complete any required paperwork and provide clear objective feedback to your line manager or clinical staff as required.

Qualifications

You must own a registered therapy dog with valid up to date certification. Evidence must be provided that your dog has successfully passed the required assessment criteria and is registered with a UK-recognised pet therapy organisation. Your dog must be trained in all basic commands and be able to respond reliably. They must be able to remain calm and not display negative reactivity towards other dogs or animals.
We accept therapy dogs from the following organisations:

PAT - Pets As Therapy - https://petsastherapy.org/ TDN - Therapy Dogs Nationwide - https://tdn.org.uk/ Essex Therapy Dogs CIC - https://essextherapydogs.co.uk
Job Type: Volunteer

Benefits:

On-site parking
Work Location: In person