Volunteer

Visit the forms page for a checklist to use at each step.
Click here to visit Forms Page

Are you interested in pet therapy work? Is your dog one that gravitates toward people, enjoys being petted, has basic training? The key to dog therapy is being certain that both you and your dog are safe, enjoy the work; and best of all bring great joy to those that you are visiting. The work is so very rewarding and can make a huge difference in the life of so many – children, elderly, first-responders, college students, hospice patients, veterans, troubled teens and so many more.

PREREQUISITES:

• Dog must be 1 year old
• Handler must be 18 years or older
• Pet must have lived with the Handler for at least 6 months
• Handler must be capable of passing Background check

STEP #1 - Attend Orientation

When at least three people have shown interest, we will schedule an orientation. This is set up to give you an overview of the process, talk about dog behavior and help you prepare for the evaluation - this is done without your dog. The other option is to attend Therapy Dog Training 4 hours course at MyK9 Buddy; which is a program with your dog, and allows for a mock evaluation on the last week.

Anticipated Orientation dates:
1/4/25, 4/26/25, 7/12/25, 10/4/25
Mt.Airy Library 10am-12pm

CLICK HERE to add your name to the Orientation list.

CLICK here to find details on scheduling training sessions.

Questions: CONTACT Us: mycaringpaws@gmail.com

STEP #2 – GROUP EVALUATION

Is your dog ready? Has your dog been out/about to different locations, different floor surfaces, in an elevator …? Has your dog been well socialized, practiced obedience, good leash skills and is great with other dogs. The evaluator will observe how you and your pet react to crowds, other pets, rough petting, loud noises, wheelchairs or walkers, etc.

If your pet is not ready, the evaluator will make suggestions on what needs to be worked on. Feel free to practice their suggestions, and try again at a later date.

Anticipated evaluation dates:
1/16/25, 5/8/25, 7/24/25, 10/16/25
Carroll Ag Center: Blizzard Building
6pm

PREREQUISITES:

• Must have attended MCP Orientation or 4-week Preparatory Therapy Dog Class
• Handler must be 18 years or older
• Pet must have lived with the Handler for at least 6 months
• Handler must be capable of passing Background check

CLICK HERE to sign up for the Next Group Evaluation

STEP #3 – VISIT EVALUATIONS - Mentorship

Now that you’ve passed the Group Evaluation, it is time to go on a visit, get acquainted with what type of visit is best for you and your dog. You should try different locations and keep an open mind on what may work best for you and your dog; find a seasoned mentor to learn the ropes.

CLICK HERE to Fill out the form to indicate you are ready to do a Site Evaluation and a leader will contact you.