Frequently Asked Questions 

What is animal assisted therapy? 

AAT is goal-directed intervention in which an animal that meets specific criteria is an integral part of the treatment process. Goals can be physical, educational, motivational or mental health oriented. In addition to goals, AAT programs measure the individual's progress.

Why become a Power Paws member?

• You and your dog will impact someone’s life in a very unique and powerful way. 
• You and your dog will have the privilege of supporting and comforting someone. 
• You will spend quality time with your dog while helping others. 
• You and your dog will have the opportunity to give back to the community 
• You will gain perspective and appreciation for life and its challenges.   

Will my dog qualify?

• Your dog MUST be at least one year of age and you have owned it at least 6 months.
• Your dog MUST get along well with children and adults. 
• Your dog MUST tolerate other dogs being around them (no aggressive behavior).   
• Your dog MUST pass the American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen Test (CGC).  There is also a no cost to you internal evaluation that Power Paws will require.
• Please see Volunteer for more info. 

Does my dog have to be spayed or neutered? 

No, a dog does not need to be spayed or neutered to become a member of Power Paws.

Does my dog have to have all its vaccinations?

Power Paws requires that each animal must be up to date with rabies vaccination and any other state required vaccine.  Individual facilities may have their own requirements.  

How does my dog get tested and registered to become a therapy dog?

There are several local facilities that provide training and/or certification for CGC.  Please see Volunteer for more info on suggested locations and dates. 

Why should my dog and I be evaluated and registered?

Organizations such as AKC set standards for AAT and help ensure that visiting teams have the skills and aptitude to make a good team.  Once you become a member of Power Paws, you and your pet are covered by a liability insurance policy while volunteering at Power Paws events.  

Does it cost anything to register my dog?

Fees vary depending on what training and/or certification may be needed.

Can my dog work as a therapy dog without being registered?

No.  All Power Paws teams must be registered for pet therapy work.

Do you train therapy dogs?

No.  However, all dogs must pass an internal evaluation that Power Paws will require and provide at no cost to you.

How much time do volunteers have to give?

As little or as much as you'd like.  We have several different programs during the week, both day and evening hours, as well as weekends.

Can I volunteer if I do not own a dog?

Absolutely!  We would still love to have you volunteer your services in other ways such as fundraising, grant writing, publicity, organizing, advertising, etc.  

Do you rescue or accept dogs as donations for your programs?

No we do not.  If a dog needs to be rescued please contact Rescue Groups in your local area.

Are there any requirements for handlers?

All handlers must be at least 18 years of age.