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For some years now it has been recognised, more and more, that pets are good for us! Indeed, it has been scientifically proven that the mere action of stroking a dog, or cat, slows down the heartbeat, reduces blood pressure, and makes someone who has already suffered a heart attack much less likely to have another.
Through no fault of their own, many people find themselves deprived of the companionship of a much-loved dog. It may be that they have had to go into sheltered housing, residential accommodation, or a long-stay geriatric ward; perhaps they are simply no longer able to care properly for a pet. The same applies to adults and children who have a physical disability or learning difficulty and those suffering from a terminal illness.
Volunteers and their dogs undertake therapy dog visits. Volunteers and their dogs visit care homes, hospitals, schools, heliports the airport and the prison, universities and we do one off events at company sites for company wellbeing days.
Therapets come in all breeds, cross-breeds, or 57-variety mongrels! They can be small, medium or large! The only real vital statistic is a steady and happy temperament. The dogs are approved for temperament and general suitability before being accepted and are not considered until at least one year old. We also have some lovely feline visitors!
Volunteer owners will also become actual members of our charity Canine Concern Scotland Trust - mainly so that we can be sure of insurance cover - although, happily, so far we only know of only one very minor incident - a happy dog's tail sweeping a vase from a low table!
Volunteers must be willing to make a regular commitment to visit, it need not be very often - once a fortnight, once a month, ad hoc or whenever - but the visits must be regular because the residents and patients look forward to them so much and are disappointed if they suddenly cease.
Sometimes small miracles occur - people who have never spoken, turned their faces to the wall in fact - magically come to life at the appearance of a dog in their ward! This to the surprise and delight of the nursing staff; in many cases the dogs and owners provide some light relief for them, too. Sadly, it has to be said that for some of the residents or patients the THERAPETS are their only visitors. We like to encourage them to regard the doggy visitor as their very own. There is no charge for this service which is organised and carried out entirely by volunteers. We fundraise in various ways to keep it active.
No special skills required. Just a desire to meet new people and to engage as appropriate. Relevant, excellent support is provided to all volunteers. Dog and owner will be assessed for appropriateness. Visits are normally with at least one other party who can provide support and guidance. Groups have Whatsapp / email messaging forums where appropriate - to communicate volunteering opportunities and cascade other relevant information
Volunteering is also really rewarding for the dogs. They get lots of mental stimulus and fussing and are exposed to a variety of environments which builds their confidence.
All assistance will make a real difference and be highly appreciated.
For more information please contact David Duncan at email david.duncan@canineconcernscotland.org.uk
More information about Canine Concern Scotland Trust and Therapets is also available at: https://www.therapet.org.uk/who-we-are
Experience required
No special skills required. Just a desire to meet new people and to engage as appropriate.
The dogs are approved for temperament and general suitability before being accepted and are not considered until at least one year old.
Travel details
Visits occur to hospitals, universities, care homes, schools, the airport, heliports and we do one off events at company sites for company wellbeing days.
Parking is free but volunteers pay for their own travel.
Support
Training details
Relevant, excellent support is provided to all volunteers. Dog and owner will be assessed for appropriateness. Visits are normally with at least one other party who can provide support and guidance. Groups have Whatsapp / email messaging forums where appropriate - to communicate volunteering opportunities and cascade other relevant information.
Restrictions
Minimum age: 18
Frequency & commitment
Flexible times available to volunteer. All help makes a real difference and is greatly appreciated.
Volunteers (aged 18-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
Find out more
Please fill out this form to register your interest in the opportunity Therapet Visitor Volunteers with Canine Concern Scotland Trust (Grampian Area Therapets)
Your email address and phone number will only be used by the organisation/TSI you are contacting to discuss in more detail the opportunity you are enquiring about.
Your details and message will be sent to:
David Duncan, Canine Concern Scotland Trust (Grampian Area Therapets)
David Duncan, Canine Concern Scotland Trust (Grampian Area Therapets)
Email address: david.duncan@canineconcernscotland.org.uk
Phone number: 07801530743
Thank you for registering your interest in Therapet Visitor Volunteers with Canine Concern Scotland Trust (Grampian Area Therapets).
Canine Concern Scotland Trust (Grampian Area Therapets) has been sent your details and message, they will respond to you at the email address you provided.
Something has gone wrong, please let us know about this issue at milosupport@scvo.scot quoting reference #VO103147.