Pet Therapy - Various Locations (Edmonton)

Shepherd’s Care Foundation is a faith-based, not-for-profit organization providing quality care and accommodations to seniors throughout Edmonton. Our campuses offer living options for a full spectrum of care, including independent living, supportive living, supportive living with dementia, long-term care, and complex care.

Studies have shown that holding or petting an animal helps lower blood pressure, releases strains and tension, and eases feelings of loneliness and depression. Pet visits are a resident favorite and increase social interaction, provides sensory stimulation, increasing range of motion, and experiences of self-expression and trust. 

Job Description/Responsibilities: Pet Therapy Volunteers will visit specified residents onsite according to needs, and as scheduled by SCF staff, and provide supervision for safe resident interaction with the pet therapy animal. The volunteer is responsible for all animal clean-up and maintaining up-to-date vaccination records and training.

NOTE: This Position requires the use of the volunteer's own dog that must comply with the standards of a training program deemed recognized by Shepherd’s Care Foundation. SCF has forged a relationship with a recognized organization (St John's Ambulance) that offers free Pet Therapy training for your pet if it qualifies according to their program guidelines. May consider other training programs as well, please contact Volunteer Services at joosterveld@shepherdscare.org to discuss. 

Locations:
Kensington Village > 12603 – 135 Avenue, Edmonton, AB  T5L 5B2
Eden House > 2759 – 109 Street Edmonton, AB T6J 6B7
Millwoods Care Centre > 6620–28 Ave Edmonton, AB T6K 2R1
Vanguard > 10311 - 122 Ave Edmonton, AB T5G 0K8