While most of the volunteer staff at Sierra View walk upright, some of the most popular hospital volunteers have four legs! That’s right, thanks to a partnership with Delta Society Pet Partners^® and their affiliate group Paws 4 Healing, Sierra View is able to offer both animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted activities to our patients.

Not only do therapy animals provide patients a fun diversion from the hospital routine, but studies have shown that pet therapy can also be beneficial to the healing process. Visits with these animals can help a patient relax, lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of loneliness or depression, improve balance and postural control, and much more.

Requirements

Do you have a pet who you think would make a good Pet Partner^®? Please read the requirements below:

• Currently, animals approved to be in the program are limited to dogs, birds, guinea pigs, cats and hamsters. The hospital’s Infection Control Committee must approve other animals.
• All animals must pass health, skills, and aptitude screenings as set forth by Delta Society Pet Partners^® and their affiliate groups. Handlers must demonstrate knowledge of various recipient populations by passing a written test. Handler/animal must pass evaluation by a Delta Society licensed evaluator.
• New Pet Partners^® must attend volunteer hospital orientations without their animal. New Pet Partners^® will also be assigned to work with an experienced Pet Partner^®.
• A veterinarian must certify yearly that the animal is healthy, free of infection, contagious disease, or dermatological problems, and immunizations as recommended by Pet Partners^®’ veterinarian are current.
• Sierra View District Hospital will not assume any liability or responsibility for the safety, health, or security of therapy animals.

If you are interested in becoming a Pet Partner^® please fill out our Application/Inquiry Form. A representative from Delta Society will be in contact with you soon.