St. John Ambulance (Therapy Dog Team)

• Background/police check required
• Appropriate for volunteers aged between 18 and 55
• Appropriate for volunteers aged 55 and over
• Training or orientation required

St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog volunteers are passionate about their community and sharing the love that their dog provides to others. Volunteer Requirements We are looking for: Individuals who wish to provide healthcare-oriented volunteer service within their community by using their dog as meaningful engagement tool. Volunteer Age Group: Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. Dogs must be a minimum of one year of age or older to be evaluated. Training Pre-requisites: Volunteers: •Must complete an application form •Should be physically and mentally capable of performing the activities that are reasonable for the type of service they are to provide •Must complete a Criminal Records Check with a Vulnerable Sector Search Dogs: •Must be one year of age or older •Accepting of a friendly stranger •Sitting calmly for petting •Walking on a loose leash •Walking through a crowd (including wheelchairs) •Sitting on command/staying in place •React well to another dog or to distractions (noise, jogger, etc) Time Requirement: Volunteers and their dogs are generally expected to provide regular weekly or bi-weekly visits in order to develop a bond with the clients that they visit.