Therapy Pet Pals of Texas

How to volunteer:

Step 1

1. Read the Pet Requirements

Only one pet per applicant.
All pets must be one year old.
Dogs must have passed the AKC Canine Good Citizen test.
Dogs must have current inoculations for:
- Rabies, Distemper, CAV-2-Adenovirus, Bordetella, Parainfluenza, Parvo Virus, and Parasite Control (for heartworm, fleas and ticks)
Cats must have current inoculations for:
- Rabies, Panleukopenia, Rhinotrachetis, Calici Virus, and Parasite Control (for heartworm, fleas and ticks)
- Also, if applicable: Leukemia and Chlamydia
All pets must have a yearly physical, fecal check, and heartworm test. Year-round heartworm preventative and flea control medication is also required.

All pets must meet the following standards:

Temperament: People Pleasing Personality
Socialized: Secure in new places, gets along well with other pets
Obedient: Obeys owner and under control at all times
Excellent Health: Annual physical exams and all required inoculations must be kept current.
Squeaky Clean: Including ears, eyes, breath, toenails trimmed smooth
Applicant will not be permitted to attend class if pet is dirty!

Dogs must be controllable without choke chain / pinch collar and on leash at all times. Use short 3-4 ft leash, no Flexi-lead.
Cats must be harness trained and on leash at all times. Also must be well adapted to carrier and auto travel.

Step 2

2. Read the People Requirements.

Must be at least 18 years of age

Qualifying and Training Class
Both applicant and dog must attend TPPT's two-hour class. Cat owners must attend the class, but cats will be evaluated at the TPPT office prior to the day of the class. The first half of the orientation class is an explanation of TPPT’s rules and regulations. The second half of the class is a “hands on” walk-through with TPPT Evaluators simulating situations encountered in healthcare facilities; such as, wheelchairs, walkers, etc.

Paperwork
Applicants will be given the "Pet Pal Pointers" handbook outlining TPPT’s rules and regulations. Instructions for the proper completion of the application and other required TPPT forms will be given at the class.

Training
After successful completion and processing of paperwork, the trainee and pet will be assigned an experienced TPPT Trainer, who will make a minimum of three training visits with them at a healthcare facility.

Visitations
TPPT membership requires a firm commitment of a minimum of two visits per month to your assigned facility. This provides adequate time to establish a "bond" between the residents and the TPPT volunteers. Many residents/patients have very few, if any other visitors, so TPPT visits become an important and anxiously awaited part of their routine.

Step 3

3. Pre-screening and Registration

Pre-screening:
Call TPPT office: 512-347-1984

Registration:
After pre-screening send:
* Copy of AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate or proof of passing the Canine Good Citizen test with evaluator signature
* Completed Certificate of Vaccination (This will be emailed to you.)
* $50 registration fee (non-refundable)

Step 4

4. Qualifying and Training Class

Attendance at the Qualifying and Training Class is mandatory.
No walk-ins allowed.
Please bring your dog on a 3-4 foot leash - no flexi-leads, choke chains or prong collars.

Please do not bring treats to the class.

Therapy Pet Pals of Texas, Inc.

How to volunteer:

Qualifying / Training Class Dates 2025

February

15