Pet Program
Members in the Pet Program enjoy the pleasure of sharing the love of their pets with those in need.
We pride ourselves as an organization that oversees and assists our members in every aspect of the volunteering process. From completing the orientation process to establishing you in a facility and serving as your liaison, the Share-A-Pet Family is there to help.
The Pet Program Membership process is fun and educational.
Click the red links below to learn more about the steps to become a Pet Program Member
- Orientation Meeting
- TOP Certification
- Evaluation
- Register
- Fees & Policies
Orientation Meetings are held regionally once a month at a local nursing home. Please contact your local Director to find a meeting near you.
Your dog must be:
- spayed/neutered,
- people and dog friendly,
- have basic obedience skills,
- at least a year old,
- and you must have owned your dog for one year.
If your dog is too young or you feel that your dog is not ready to pass the testing requirements, we would like to refer you to our qualified trainers who can help prepare your dog to be a TOP Dog.
Orientation Meetings last between one and 1 1/2 hours.
Things to bring:
* A check for membership made out to Share-A-Pet if you have not already paid online.
* A copy of your pet's recent rabies vaccination.
Therapy Obedience Professional (TOP)
Share-A-Pet has designed the TOP test specifically to certify pets and their handlers as qualified to perform Pet Assisted Therapy in hospitals, nursing homes, children’s centers and other designated institutions. The TOP Test is only part of the certification process and should not be considered as an independent qualification to perform Pet Assisted Therapy. TOP tests are performed by trained and registered TOP testers. Contact your local Coordinator for testers in your area. Photos will be taken for your volunteer badges, so come prepared!
Our testers are committed to certifying TOP dogs who can then go out into the community and bring love and joy to people in need.
Evaluations constitute the final step in the three step process of becoming a Pet Program volunteer. It is important that these steps are taken in the correct order.
Each prospective Pet Program Member must complete an evaluation prior to graduating.
An evaluation involves participating in a one hour guided Pet Assisted Therapy session with a qualified evaluator at a local facility.
Evaluations are an opportunity for you to gain an in-depth understanding of Pet Assisted Therapy and to have any questions answered.
Evaluators are available at facilities in various locations.
