New Blog for 2009 & 2010

Thank you all for checking this blog for the most up to date information about Polk County Pet Pals. This year (2011) we want more of you to go on visits more often. Since there seems to be a lot of confusion about when and where to visit we have provided a current list of facilities where we are welcome. You can visit at any time that fits your schedule just call ahead and make an appointment.

Things to consider BEFORE you visit:

Is your membership with TDI (Therapy Dogs Inc.) current? It needs to be renewed every year. Some facilities do not require this - check before visiting.

Have you had the vet update your Health Certification Form? This needs to be done yearly. You need to have this with you or in your car during all visits. If you need a copy please e-mail Katie Malone @ tricoach@windstream.net

Sunday, September 20, 2009

How do I become a member?


Once a year Polk County Pet Pals holds training for teams. A team consists of a dog and a handler. The dog must be friendly, willing, non-agressive with people or other dogs and under control. They don't have to have formal obedience training but they should be obedient and know basic commands. The training is really to teach you and your dog how to behave in a nursing home in order to have a happy and safe visit. The "observer" from Therapy Dogs Inc. must meet with each team 3 times before they can be approved and signed off on.

The cost? A commitment from each team to visit at least 8 times within the year. If you can't commit to this don't bother coming to the training. Training is for people who are committed to volunteering. If you want a title for your dog you need to go somewhere else!

Therapy Dogs Inc. charges $35 for your registration and insurance per year for the first year and then $25 to renew every year after that.

The next training session will take place in January or February 2010.

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