THE BEST. JOB. EVER.
Volunteering with Loving Paws is a unique opportunity to do something truly meaningful—spend quality time with your dog while bringing joy, comfort, and connection to others.
Our therapy dog teams make a real difference in the lives of people in need, and we’re always looking for compassionate volunteers to join us.
READY TO GET INVOLVED?
IF THE LIST BELOW SOUNDS LIKE YOU AND YOUR DOG,
WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
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Passionate about supporting people with physical, emotional, or mental challenges
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Able to commit at least 6 hours per quarter (or 2 hours per month) for a minimum of one year
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At least 16 years old (volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult)
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In good health, with no communicable illnesses
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Physically able to move freely
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Comfortable working with diverse groups of people in various settings
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Reliable and able to arrange their own transportation
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Committed to keeping their dog healthy, vaccinated, and flea/tick protected
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Attentive to their dog’s behavior and well-being at all times
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Be at least one year old
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If adopted or rescued, have lived with their owner for at least six months
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Have an annual veterinary check-up on file
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Be current on all vaccinations, including Rabies and Bordetella
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Be heartworm-negative and on a regular parasite prevention plan
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Have no history of aggression toward people or animals
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Be comfortable with people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities
STEPS TO BECOME A CERTIFIED THERAPY TEAM
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Attend the Loving Paws Orientation (total of 2 hours, $30 non-refundable registration fee; please note orientation is required before signing up for an evaluation)
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Receive the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen Certificate (CGC certificate must be received within six months of the Loving Paws Team Evaluation). See the American Kennel Club website to find approved Canine Good Citizen evaluators.
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Submit a current veterinary exam and vaccination records
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Complete all volunteer application forms
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Pass the Loving Paws Team Evaluation Test ($50 non-refundable registration fee)
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Participate in a shadow visit with and without your dog
2026 Loving Paws Orientation Date
April 14
2026 Loving Paws Evaluation Dates
June 14
August 9
November 15
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
If you and your dog are a great team and you’re passionate about helping others, we’d love to hear from you. Join us and experience the joy of making a difference—one paw at a time.
We hold four new volunteer certification classes per year. To find out about our next onboarding opportunity or if you have any questions about the process, please submit the form below.