Rules for Animals in the Pet Therapy Program

As a representative of the Humane Society of Calloway County, a Pet Therapy volunteer is expected to read and abide by the policies stated below:

∙Dogs and cats must be on a leash and under their handler's control at all times. Other animals must also be restrained from escape in some way - cage or harness and leash.

∙Puppies and kittens under one year of age must be closely monitored, both for behavior and for signs of stress.

∙Dogs and cats must have up-to-date rabies shots, and must wear ID and rabies tags. Dogs should be licensed.

∙It is strongly preferred that therapy animals be spayed or neutered.

∙Whenever possible, dogs should be certified by Therapy Dogs International, Inc. At the very least, they should have basic obedience training.

∙New animals in the program must be screened by the Director during or before the initial Pet Therapy visit or activity.

∙Animals must be healthy, clean and well-groomed.

∙Animals must not be aggressive toward people or other animals.

∙At the resident's request, a small animal may be held to a lap or bed, but the owner must be the one actually holding the animal at all times.

∙Animals must never be left unattended while participating in a Pet Therapy program.

Back to Pet Assisted Therapy

Please direct questions or comments about the site to humanesociety@murray-ky.net.