Learn Pet Therapy Skills

Training

Learn the skills needed to visit safely with your animal in hospitals, nursing homes, classrooms, and other facilities. Successful completion of this course, in instructor-led or online format, is required for registration as a Pet Partner.

Topics include:

Selecting and preparing animals for visits
Identifying and decreasing stress in animals
Animal health and safety
Special needs of client groups
Interacting with special people
Facility health and safety codes
Patient confidentiality

Complete the course in one of three formats offered:

1. Attend an 8-Hour Workshop (without your dog)

All of our workshops are taught by Delta Society-licensed Pet Partners team instructors. These instructors have received formal training in Delta Society's Pet Partners Program, including how to better assist new teams in preparing for their first visit. Further, our instructors bring to each class many years of experience in Pet Partner work that is integrated into the workshop's content.

Our workshops are typically held at Bethesda North Hospital during a weekend day.

These workshops are for handlers only. No pets please.

The instructor or another group volunteer will have a registered Pet Partner with them (the "demo dog") so that you may see an experienced team in action.

Check the Upcoming Events to your left for an upcoming Pet Partners Team Workshop, or contact us for more information..

2. Attend a 7-Week Class (with your dog)

We periodically offer 7-week pet therapy classes at Clermont County Dog Training Club. Check their website, as well as our list of Upcoming Events, for more information.

3. Complete an Online Study Course

For handlers who prefer to study on their own or cannot attend a workshop, Delta offers an online version of the Pet Partners Team Training Course. Contact us for more information.