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Internship Therapy Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dental assistant

Mckinney, TX · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

And yes our team wouldn't be complete without Buddy, our loving emotional support dog , who brings ... At this time, we are unable to accommodate interns or internationally trained dentists who are not ...

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Internship Therapy Dog information

What is an internship therapy dog?

An Internship Therapy Dog is a dog that is undergoing training, often alongside its handler, to become a certified therapy dog. These dogs are involved in programs where they learn how to provide comfort and emotional support to people in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, or other facilities. The internship phase allows the dog to gain supervised experience in real-world settings, helping both the dog and handler prepare for certification. Typically, these therapy dogs must display calm, friendly, and gentle behavior, and they work closely with their handler throughout their training and service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a therapy dog, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Therapy Dog, core skills include obedience, calm temperament, and the ability to handle various environments, often validated through certification by organizations like Therapy Dogs International. Familiarity with basic commands, leash manners, and passing a therapy dog evaluation are typically required. Exceptional patience, gentleness, and sociability help therapy dogs connect with and comfort people in need. These qualities ensure therapy dogs provide safe, positive, and effective emotional support in settings such as hospitals, schools, and nursing homes.

What are some common challenges faced during an internship as a therapy dog handler?

Interning as a therapy dog handler can present unique challenges, such as adapting to the diverse needs and emotional states of clients in various settings like hospitals or schools. Building a strong bond with the therapy dog and ensuring its well-being while managing unpredictable environments is essential. Additionally, maintaining professionalism, adhering to facility protocols, and effectively communicating with both clients and staff are key aspects that require ongoing attention and adaptability.

What is the difference between Internship Therapy Dog vs Volunteer Therapy Dog?

AspectInternship Therapy DogVolunteer Therapy Dog
CertificationsBasic training, therapy dog certificationTherapy dog certification, ongoing training
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised settingsHospitals, nursing homes, schools
Employer/Industry UsageOrganizations training future therapy dogsHospitals, therapy programs

Internship Therapy Dogs are in training or supervised programs to prepare for therapy work, often involving certification and structured environments. Volunteer Therapy Dogs are fully certified and actively visit facilities to provide comfort and companionship. The main difference lies in the training stage and level of involvement, with internships focusing on skill development and volunteering on active service.

More about Internship Therapy Dog jobs

What cities are hiring for Internship Therapy Dog jobs?

Cities with the most Internship Therapy Dog job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Therapy Dog jobs?

The most popular types of Therapy Dog jobs are:

What states have the most Internship Therapy Dog jobs?

States with the most job openings for Internship Therapy Dog jobs include:

Infographic showing various Internship Therapy Dog job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Animal Care Services

Norco, CA • On-site

$18.75 - $33/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

SALARY $18.75 - $33.00
Compensation is commensurate with experience, Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; continuing education allowance; paid CE days; professional dues and licensing support; liability coverage; retirement plan participation; employee pet care discounts.
SCHEDULE: Part-time - May include weekdays, evenings, weekends, holidays, or on-call shifts depending on business needs.
 
POSITION SUMMARY
At Animal Care Services, we believe exceptional patient care begins with an exceptional team.  The veterinary technician (RVT) is an essential part of the healthcare team providing compassionate, skilled and personalized care to our patients and families.  The RVT supports veterinarians in delivering exceptional medical care while creating a positive, supportive experience for every client who walks through the door.  The ideal candidate is dependable, compassionate, detail-oriented and passionate about veterinary medicine.  They will work collaboratively with our team to ensure excellent patient care, client communication and a welcoming hospital environment.  The RVT/VA reports to the Nursing Team Lead and is responsible for performing all nursing duties within their scope of practice. This role requires independent judgment in handling routine assignments, while referring unfamiliar issues or situations outside established instructions to the Nursing Team Lead or Supervisor for guidance. The RVT also supports client and patient care and helps ensure the veterinary department operates smoothly.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
·         Provide compassionate nursing care to patients throughout their visit
·         Assist veterinarians with examinations, treatments, procedures and patient care plans
·         Obtain patient histories, record vital signs and accurately document medical information
·         Administer medications, vaccines, fluids and therapies as directed by the veterinarian
·         Perform laboratory procedures including bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal testing, cytology preparation and other diagnostics
·         Assist with surgery preparation, anesthesia monitoring, patient recovery and post-operative care
·         Perform dental cleaning and assist with dental radiographs as trained
·         Provide clear and compassionate client education regarding medications, nutrition, preventative care and home care instructions
·         Maintain cleanliness, organization and readiness of treatment areas, surgical areas and equipment
·         Monitor hospitalized patients and communicate changes in condition promptly
·         Maintain accurate medical records and follow hospital protocols and safety standards
·         Become familiar with and follow established policies and procedures.
·         Maintain and promote client, employee, and community relations.
·         Support inventory management, equipment maintenance and efficient daily clinic operations
·         Maintain confidentiality with sensitive information and correspondence.
·         Assist in the mentoring and training of interns and inexperienced nursing staff.
·         Participate in regularly scheduled team meetings.
·         Promote a collaborative and supportive work environment.
QUALIFICATIONS
·         3+ years previous experience in a veterinary hospital setting
·         Strong knowledge of veterinary terminology, anatomy, animal behavior, patient care and handling
·         Excellent communication skills and a commitment to exceptional client service
·         Competent in handling and restraint of dog breeds of all sizes and cats
·         Ability to work independently while contributing positively within a team environment
·         Ability to demonstrate compassion, professionalism, reliability and a willingness to continue learning
·         Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities in a busy hospital
PREFERRED
·         Veterinary Technician education and licensed to work in CA 
·         Fear Free Certification
·         Experience with anesthesia monitoring, catheter placement, venipuncture, dentistry, radiology and laboratory diagnostics
·         Experience with practice management systems
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
·         Must be able to stand, walk, bend, reach, and work on feet for extended periods.
·         Must be able to safely handle animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
·         May be exposed to animal dander, odors, noise, bites, scratches, infectious disease, cleaning agents, medications, and radiology or laboratory equipment.
·         Must follow all safety, sanitation, controlled substance, and personal protective equipment protocols.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT
We are an equal opportunity employer and value a respectful, inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, experience, business needs, and the ability to perform the essential functions of the role.