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Pet Therapy Volunteers

Take two belly rubs and call me in the morning

More than 45 furry four-legged bundles of happiness visit patients at St. Luke’s facilities, thanks to their dedicated human companions. Whether a tiny Yorkie or a lovable Great Dane, visits from specially trained doggie friends provide cheer, brighten a stressful day, and help our patients, visitors, and staff relax.

These caring human-canine teams bring comfort and diversion for adult and pediatric patients alike. Studies show that just petting a dog causes the release of hormones that ease stress and depression and lower the heart rate.

Pet therapy volunteers give more than 2,100 hours to St. Luke’s each year. They also delight kids at the annual NICU graduates picnic, Pediatric Oncology party, and Camp Rainbow Gold.

Pet Therapy Requirements

To become pet therapy volunteers, you must be at least 18 years old and your dog must be at least one year old. You also must be a registered team with Therapy Dogs, Inc.

Volunteers undergo extensive training, and a select few experienced dogs and handlers take on additional training that qualifies them to visit cancer patients or sit with children in our pediatric emergency department. When visiting, dogs must be clean, neat, friendly, and ready to socialize. Handlers need to be personable, engage in conversation, and monitor conditions of the visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click each question below for its answer:

How do I start the process of becoming a pet therapy volunteer?

You and your dog must first be registered with the Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD): This Cheyenne, WY-based organization registers teams across the United States. ATD uses volunteer testers/observers (TOs) to ensure that new teams are prepared to visit and that the dogs are suitable for this work. Once prospective teams are tested, observed and registered, they get limited insurance that many facilities require for visiting.

What are the qualification requirements?

Your dog must be at least one year old and be known to you for at least six months before the test. You do not have to be the owner of the dog. You must have proof (from your vet) of a current rabies vaccine and recent negative fecal float. You and the dog must also pass a handling test and observations. Please review other requirements from the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

Your Partner in Health.

People are at the heart of great health care. That's why we are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care tailored to the communities we serve. 


Together with our community partners and patients, we're building a stronger, healthier future for all Idahoans.

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Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222