2nd
Smile please!
We like to be prepared and we will need a head shot of you and your canine pal for their ID badge.
Please email those to us once you're happy about joining us.
3rd
Confirming it's you!
We will ask you to supply the email addresses of two people who have known you for at least two years. If they know you and your dog together, even better. We will ask them to say why they think your partnership would make a good therapy dog team.
Obviously, we won't ask family members for this as they think you're amazing already!
4th
Healthy dog, healthy life
As many of the people we visit are immune suppressed through age, illness or disability, we do ask that your dog is initially vaccinated. After that, they need to receive their vaccinations in line with the World Veterinary Organisation or be Titre tested.
We would require a copy of their latest vaccination certificate or Titre test result.
We also suggest that your dog is worm and flea treated when required by whatever method you wish, medically or a herbal mix.
We also ask that you confirm annually that the dog is fit and health.
5th
Finding an assessor
Once we have all the information we need, We will then find an assessor to meet with you and your canine pal.
You might want to look at the page 'our assessment' as it gives information on our assessment process.
6th
Waiting for the postman
As soon as your assessment is a positive outcome, your photos are in, your canine pal's vaccination or titre testing is seen and your references say you are you. Then, we're happy to accept you.
We will give you details of how to order your uniform. We ask you to have our polo top at least, but we also have fleeces, and zip / pullover sweatshirts available to purchase. We can help finance these too if you feel it would be too much for you but are keen to start. Your canine pal will need a lead and maybe one of our stylish bandanas to make them stand out from the crowd.
7th
Bone money payment
We endeavour to keep things as low cost as possible. We are aware of the high price of everything and as a not-for-profit members group, we just need to cover our costs. We are all volunteers and nobody is paid, oh, except our dogs, with love. All we ask is an annual payment of £10, but if that's too much, just let us know.
Our uniforms are at cost and we have sourced some really good quality items from some excellent suppliers.
We also ask you to complete your safeguarding awareness training.
8th
Ready to go!
All set for action now. We can help you find somewhere to visit although many of our volunteers know a place calling them and their canine pals.
You will receive information on visiting, information to give your setting about your visits, our insurance certificate and a template for a risk assessment.
All you need to do is let us know where you're visiting with contact details, jump into your uniforms, get your ID badge and off you go spreading love and happiness to all you meet.