About Pet Visitation

In this program volunteers and their dogs visit a community organization like a hospital, veteran's center, or hospice where they share their dog's love and affection with others. Volunteer candidates must be able to provide their own transportation and have a dog in their care with a Canine Good Citizen Certification. To view upcoming CGC Prep Course & Test dates click here. 

The Anti-Cruelty Society offers three options of Pet Visitation to accommodate owners looking to connect with their communities through their canines. The Anti-Cruelty Society offers preparatory classes and tests for each option on a regular basis. Each option requires passing a Canine Good Citizen test. Volunteer Orientation sessions (required for two options) can be scheduled through our Volunteer Department. The Volunteer Orientation reviews our organization's history, volunteer opportunities, and our ongoing mission to help pets and educate people.



Pet Visitation Referral 


Anyone that passes a Canine Good Citizen test can take a list of facilities that have requested occasional visits. Lists will be made available at the CGC tests. The volunteer and the facility work directly with one another to coordinate schedules and upcoming visits. The visits will not count towards volunteer hours at The Anti-Cruelty Society and The Anti-Cruelty Society accepts no liability for the interactions during these visits. The facility may or may not require additional volunteer training. Requirements: CGC certificate.



Humane Education Pet Visitation


Participants connect with our Humane Education Department to coordinate visits throughout the community. After attending a Volunteer Orientation, participants will be contacted by the Humane Education department when outreach presentations are requested which include a pet visit. Requirements: CGC certificate, Volunteer Orientation Attendance.

Pet Visitation partnership with Canine Therapy Corps

Owners of dogs with CGC certification complete an additional test designed to ensure that the dogs will be comfortable during the visitation experience. If passed, volunteers and their dogs are assigned to work with a specific facility on a regular basis through our partnership. Requirements: CGC certificate, passing additional test (created by The Anti-Cruelty Society and Canine Therapy Corps) and Volunteer Orientation attendance.

If you are a facility (assisted living, hospital, children's center, hospice, etc.) that would like to have a pet visitation program, please email education@anticruelty.org.