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Volunteer Therapy Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

INTEGRIS Health

Pet Therapy Volunteer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

Credentialed* therapy dogs and their handlers visit patients, staff, and guests throughout the ... APPLY HERE: www.integrishealth.org/volunteer * Pet must be certified through a credentialed therapy ...

Gentiva Hospice - Portland

Therapy Dog Visits

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Own a therapy dog? You can serve as an additional support by making friendly visits with your ... Our volunteer training will teach you everything you need to know to be a companion for someone ...

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Volunteer Therapy Dog information

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$8

$19

$33

How much do volunteer therapy dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer therapy dog in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer therapy dog?

Volunteer Therapy Dogs are specially trained dogs that, alongside their handlers, visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and other facilities to provide comfort, support, and companionship to people in need. These dogs are not service animals but are valued for their gentle temperaments and ability to interact positively with a variety of individuals. The primary purpose of therapy dogs is to help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness, often bringing smiles and emotional relief to those they visit. Volunteer handlers and their dogs typically work with organizations that ensure both dog and handler are properly trained and certified for therapy work.

What are some common challenges faced when volunteering as a therapy dog handler, and how can they be managed?

Volunteering as a therapy dog handler can be highly rewarding, but it comes with unique challenges, such as unpredictable environments and interactions with individuals who may be anxious or unfamiliar with dogs. Handlers must ensure their dog remains calm and responsive, even when faced with loud noises, medical equipment, or sudden movements. Effective training, ongoing socialization, and clear communication with facility staff can help manage these challenges and ensure positive visits. Handlers also need to be attentive to their dog's stress signals and advocate for their well-being during each session.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Therapy Dog team, the handler should have a solid understanding of animal behavior and basic obedience training, while the dog must demonstrate calm temperament and reliable responsiveness, often verified by therapy animal certification. Familiarity with therapy animal program protocols, health screening requirements, and facility-specific rules is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations help the team build trust and comfort with clients. These skills and qualities ensure safe, positive interactions that maximize the therapeutic benefits for individuals in hospitals, schools, or care facilities.

What is the difference between Volunteer Therapy Dog vs Volunteer Animal-Assisted Therapist?

AspectVolunteer Therapy DogVolunteer Animal-Assisted Therapist
CertificationsDog training, therapy dog certificationTherapist certification, training in animal-assisted therapy
Work EnvironmentHospitals, nursing homes, schoolsHospitals, mental health clinics, therapy settings
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, hospitals, therapy programsHealthcare providers, mental health organizations

Volunteer Therapy Dogs are trained dogs certified to provide comfort in various settings, working alongside handlers. Volunteer Animal-Assisted Therapists are trained professionals who incorporate animals into therapeutic practices, often with formal therapy certifications. While both roles involve animals in healing environments, Volunteer Therapy Dogs focus on providing comfort through trained dogs, whereas Volunteer Animal-Assisted Therapists integrate animals into structured therapy sessions.

More about Volunteer Therapy Dog jobs

What cities are hiring for Volunteer Therapy Dog jobs?

Cities with the most Volunteer Therapy Dog job openings:

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

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What states have the most Volunteer Therapy Dog jobs?

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Volunteer Therapy Dog jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer 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, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Therapy Dog Volunteer (Unpaid)

Home Health Care, Inc.

Owatonna, MN

$1 - $2/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Pet Therapy Volunteer

Organization: Superior Hospice

Location: 21 County service Area - Greater Twin Cities Metro

Position Type: Volunteer (unpaid)

Apply Today: Please send an email directly to Paige Lubiani at paige.lubiani@superiorhospice.net with a copy of your resume and explanation of why you are looking to volunteer with our hospice organization!

Superior Hospice, a new and compassionate hospice agency in Minnesota, is on a heartfelt mission to offer comfort and support to individuals nearing the end of their life journey. We are eager to build our foundational team and are seeking Pet Therapy Volunteers who, alongside their therapy dog(s), can help provide warmth and comfort to our patients and their families during these profound moments.

Apply Today: Please send an email directly to Paige Lubiani at paige.lubiani@superiorhospice.net with a copy of your resume and explanation of why you are looking to volunteer with our hospice organization!

Core Responsibilities:

  • Therapeutic Visits: Conduct regular visits to patients with your therapy dog, providing comfort, companionship, and joy.
  • Collaborative Care: Work closely with our care team to incorporate pet therapy into the patient's overall care plan, tailoring visits to each patient’s needs and preferences.
  • Safety and Hygiene: Ensure all pet therapy guidelines, hygiene standards, and safety protocols are followed during visits.
  • Record Keeping: Document visits and observe and report on the patient’s response to therapy.
  • Training and Development: Participate in comprehensive hospice volunteer training provided by Superior Hospice, as well as any additional training related to pet therapy.

Qualifications:

  • Ownership of a dog that is certified as a therapy animal by a recognized organization is required.
  • A strong commitment to compassionate care and the ability to sensitively interact with individuals experiencing end-of-life challenges.
  • Exceptional communication skills and the capacity to work well with an interdisciplinary team.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of patients and their families.
  • Willingness to undergo extensive training in hospice care practices and to adhere to all guidelines and standards for pet therapy.

Why Join Us?

  • Extensive Training: Benefit from detailed training sessions on hospice care and pet therapy, enhancing your skills and understanding of end-of-life care.
  • Meaningful Impact: Experience the unique fulfillment that comes from making a profound difference in the lives of individuals and families during a crucial time.
  • Personal Growth: Learn invaluable life lessons about compassion, resilience, and the human experience at the end of life.
  • Community: Be part of the pioneering group of volunteers at Superior Hospice and help shape our approach to innovative and compassionate end-of-life care in Minnesota.

At Superior Hospice, we believe in the power of pet therapy to bring comfort and joy to those in their final stages of life. If you and your therapy dog are dedicated to making a difference and are looking for a deeply fulfilling volunteer opportunity, we would be honored to welcome you to our team.