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Pet Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

INTEGRIS Health

Pet Therapy Volunteer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Pet Therapy enhances a patient's quality of life. Credentialed* therapy dogs and their handlers visit patients, staff, and guests throughout the hospital, aiding in the healing process and enhancing ...

Sanctuary Hospice

Pet Therapy Volunteers

Uniontown, OH · On-site

Looking for four legged volunteers to make friendly pet therapy visits with hospice patients in Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, Medina, Trumbull, Mahoning, Portage & Summit Counties. Humans required to ...

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How much do pet therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for pet therapy in the United States is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is pet therapy?

Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy, is a guided interaction between a person and a trained animal, often a dog or cat, with the purpose of helping the person recover from or cope with health problems or mental disorders. The presence of animals can provide comfort, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote emotional well-being. Pet therapy is commonly used in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools to enhance the quality of life for patients and participants. The animals used in therapy are specifically trained and certified, and sessions are supervised by professionals.

What are jobs in pet therapy?

If you have appropriate qualifications in social work, occupational therapy, or a related clinical field, plus a love of animals, you can work in pet therapy. In these roles, you provide services for young people, veterans, and others who struggle with mental health issues, and you incorporate pets like dogs and cats, or farm animals like horses and goats, into your treatment plan and therapy program. Interacting with animals helps your patients develop emotional regulation and effective communication skills, and you combine these interactions with traditional therapeutic approaches to deliver effective, multi-focal care. Additionally, in some positions, you coordinate volunteers and perform related administrative duties.

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

To thrive as a Pet Therapy Specialist, you generally need knowledge of animal behavior, basic animal care, and a certification in pet therapy or animal-assisted therapy. Familiarity with assessment tools, therapy program protocols, and possibly certification for therapy animals (such as through Pet Partners or Therapy Dogs International) is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and interpersonal skills help build rapport with clients and ensure positive therapy outcomes. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing safe, effective, and compassionate therapy sessions that benefit both clients and animals.

What are some common challenges faced by pet therapy professionals when working with clients in healthcare settings?

Pet therapy professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting animal interactions to suit individual client needs, managing unpredictable animal behavior in unfamiliar environments, and ensuring the safety and comfort of both clients and therapy animals. Additionally, they must navigate strict health and safety protocols, especially in hospitals or nursing homes, and effectively collaborate with medical staff to integrate therapy sessions into patient care plans. Flexibility, strong communication skills, and thorough knowledge of animal behavior are essential for overcoming these challenges and providing meaningful therapeutic experiences.

What is the difference between Pet Therapy vs Animal-Assisted Therapy?

AspectPet TherapyAnimal-Assisted Therapy
CredentialsVaries; often no formal certification requiredTypically requires certification and training in therapy animal programs
Work EnvironmentHospitals, nursing homes, schools, community centersSame as Pet Therapy, often integrated into clinical settings
PurposeProvide comfort and emotional support through animalsTherapeutic intervention as part of a treatment plan

Pet Therapy involves animals providing comfort in various settings, often without formal certification. Animal-Assisted Therapy is a structured, clinical approach requiring specific training and certification. Both roles involve working with animals in healthcare or community environments, but Animal-Assisted Therapy is more focused on therapeutic outcomes within treatment plans.

Is animal-assisted therapy a good career?

Animal-assisted therapy is a recognized profession that involves working with trained animals to support mental and physical health. It often requires certification, knowledge of animal behavior, and strong interpersonal skills. The career can be rewarding but may involve irregular hours and emotional demands.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Pet Therapy jobs?

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What states have the most Pet Therapy jobs?

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What are popular job titles for Pet Therapy?

Popular job titles for Pet Therapy:

Infographic showing various Pet Therapy job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,377 per year, or $16 per hour.

Pet Therapy Volunteer

Clarksville, TN • On-site

Gentiva Hospice - Clarksville, TN
See more jobs at Gentiva Hospice - Clarksville, TNexternal

Other

Medical, Life

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Share Comfort Through the Healing Power of Animals

Gentiva Hospice is seeking caring volunteers and their certified therapy animals to provide comfort, companionship, and joy to our hospice patients. Pet therapy visits offer emotional support, reduce stress, and bring moments of peace and happiness to individuals facing serious illness.

Role Overview

Pet Therapy Volunteers work alongside their trained animals to offer gentle, supportive visits with hospice patients. These visits can brighten a patient’s day, ease anxiety, and provide meaningful connection during a vulnerable time.

Volunteer Responsibilities

  • Bring your certified therapy animal for scheduled patient visits
  • Provide gentle companionship and interaction tailored to patient comfort
  • Observe patient reactions and respect their needs and boundaries
  • Follow all hygiene and safety protocols during visits
  • Communicate any concerns or observations to hospice staff
  • Maintain a calm, supportive, and respectful presence

Animal Requirements

  • Must be a certified therapy animal through an approved organization
  • Up-to-date vaccinations and health records
  • Calm, friendly temperament and well-trained behavior
  • Comfortable in various care settings and around medical equipment

Volunteer Qualifications

  • Compassionate, patient, and dependable
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Comfortable working with individuals at end of life
  • Ability to follow healthcare guidelines and maintain confidentiality (HIPAA training provided)

Training & Support

  • Orientation to hospice care and volunteer expectations
  • Guidance on safe and meaningful pet therapy visits
  • Ongoing support from volunteer coordinator and care team

Benefits of Volunteering

  • Bring comfort, joy, and emotional healing to patients
  • Strengthen the human-animal bond in meaningful ways
  • Flexible scheduling to fit your routine
  • Be part of a dedicated and compassionate hospice team

“A gentle paw and a kind heart can bring comfort beyond words.”

Apply