This fascinating area of shelter business involves a highly trained group of dogs and their dedicated owners. They go out into the community to provide education and therapy. Educational issues range from teaching the public about empathy, respect and responsibility for animals, to helping children improve their reading skills. Therapy involves the emotional bond between pets and people, bringing our animals to individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities and to residents in assisted living and adult day care.
The pets include dogs and cats. Both pets and their owners go through training to certify as Therapy participants. As partners in these community events, volunteers serve as ambassadors for the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, spreading our message and creating awareness of our many programs and activities.
Applications are taken once a year, from mid August to mid September, due to the popularity of the program Members of the group undergo on-site training and meet frequently. For further information on Humane Education/Pet Therapy, please contact Helen Savill or Lynda McGlynn at (772) 600-3220 or (772) 600-3221.
Remember, to begin your service with us, you must attend an orientation and be scheduled for training by the Volunteer Coordinator.
If you would like to schedule an orientation or have more questions about volunteering, please contact Bitsy McKay at bmckay@hstc1.org or call (772) 600-3217. To return to the Volunteer Main page, please click here.