Why Join Utah Pet Partners (formerly Therapy Animals of Utah)?
Since 1997 Utah Pet Partners (formerly Therapy Animals of Utah) has been focused on excellence in volunteer training and support, outstanding professional-quality service in facilities, and a commitment to public education, especially for the professionals who partner with our teams in the field.
Two of our Pet Partners licensed Instructors have actively pursued continuing education, including completing the year long Animals and Human Health Certificate program of the University of Denver and attending national conferences on animal-assisted therapy.
Our four Pet Partner licensed Team Evaluators are actively engaged in monthly team evaluations and continually discussing how to maintain the high standards and consistency of the Pet Partner evaluation procedures.
Our members benefit from this focus and expertise. Experienced staff and volunteers assess every facility we visit, teaching the staff about the needs of our teams and how to optimize the benefits of animal-assisted therapy in their practice. New teams shadow experienced teams when they begin visiting a facility. There is a talented, dedicated group of mentors to assist novice teams as they work to integrate the complex combination of skills required for visiting. When problems come up, we have educated, experienced members willing and able to help. Annually we have volunteer appreciation events, animals included. We share a love of animals, an understanding of their gifts of comfort and healing, and a dedication to volunteer service. Because of our small size and family-like atmosphere, you’re practically guaranteed a support system of like-minded people. Pet Partners provides our national standards, expertise, and insurance. Therapy Animals of Utah provides our local support. Download a membership application here.
Two of our Pet Partners licensed Instructors have actively pursued continuing education, including completing the year long Animals and Human Health Certificate program of the University of Denver and attending national conferences on animal-assisted therapy.
Our four Pet Partner licensed Team Evaluators are actively engaged in monthly team evaluations and continually discussing how to maintain the high standards and consistency of the Pet Partner evaluation procedures.
Our members benefit from this focus and expertise. Experienced staff and volunteers assess every facility we visit, teaching the staff about the needs of our teams and how to optimize the benefits of animal-assisted therapy in their practice. New teams shadow experienced teams when they begin visiting a facility. There is a talented, dedicated group of mentors to assist novice teams as they work to integrate the complex combination of skills required for visiting. When problems come up, we have educated, experienced members willing and able to help. Annually we have volunteer appreciation events, animals included. We share a love of animals, an understanding of their gifts of comfort and healing, and a dedication to volunteer service. Because of our small size and family-like atmosphere, you’re practically guaranteed a support system of like-minded people. Pet Partners provides our national standards, expertise, and insurance. Therapy Animals of Utah provides our local support. Download a membership application here.