Thank you for your interest in becoming a Caring Canines volunteer.  Below are the basic qualifications needed for both dogs and handlers.  

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All applicant dogs must be:

• at least two years old and no older than 10 years old

• healthy, parasite-free and up-to-date on all shots (see FAQ)

• spayed or neutered

• able to perform basic obedience skills (sit*, down, stay & come, leave it)

 

To be accepted into the Caring Canines program, your dog must:

• welcome, not just tolerate, interactions with new people

• be comfortable in new environments and around medical equipment (walkers, crutches etc.) and noises

• be calm and well-behaved when meeting strangers of all ages, races and genders. This includes everyone from young children to older adults in wheelchairs.

• enjoy being petted and hugged without getting over-excited

• have a calm, sustained interest in visiting with people

• consistently follow cues and obedience commands from you even when there are distractions

• move nicely on a leash or harness through groups of people and past other dogs

Dogs will not pass a Caring Canines evaluation if any of the following are true:

• barks when meeting / seeing other dogs or people

• jumps up on people

• has ever demonstrated fear or aggression towards another dog or person

• requires a choke, prong or slip collar to stay under your control** 

• cannot settle down quietly next to someone for petting

• is easily distracted by other dogs or people

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*Greyhounds are not required to sit.  

**Martingale collars are acceptable for sight hounds