This resource will:

• Explain how pet partners can become effective members of congregational care teams
• Supply background on the pet-assisted therapy program
• Furnish information on liability (Insurance is available as an affiliate of Delta Society ®)
• Describe effective models where pet partners are working
• Provide a sample evaluation as an indicator of necessary pet partner skills
• List a veritable plethora of additional resources

Max is the high point of Kris' week
It is Thursday afternoon and Helen, Olivia and Max are on the way to visit the pediatric unit of the Childrens Hospital. One of the members of their congregation — Kris, an 8-year-old boy, is undergoing a long hospitalization while receiving chemotherapy. Kris' family visits often and the staff at the hospital is generally nice, but the high point of his week is his Thursday afternoon opportunity to scratch the silky head of Max, the golden retriever.

Mildred's visits are eagerly anticipated
Molly lives in a small apartment at the SeaShore Assisted Living Center. She misses her husband Leo, whose recent passing was the catalyst for her move to the center. She also misses Mildred, her tiger striped longhair domestic cat, who was not allowed to move there with her. She eagerly anticipates visits from her care team, Justin, who is 11, his grandmother Eleanor, and Mildred, who now resides with Justin and his family. Molly enjoys the conversation and treats that Eleanor and Justin bring, but seeing and petting Mildred, knowing she is well cared for in a loving home, makes Saturday morning very special.

Before his episode of depression, Butch was an avid hiker and outdoors person. Yet even when encouraged by staff, Butch will not venture outside. The staff of OakView have contacted your congregation—knowing that you have a Care Team Using Pet Partners Program and are hoping that you might have a care team member who could come and visit Butch. They have noticed that when a care team that uses pets visits another patient, William, Butch moves from his isolated seat to be near William and his visitors. They think a care team member with a pet partner might be a safe way to subtly encourage Butch to begin interacting with others, as well as provide a reason for him to go outside occasionally.

Karen's work has been highlighted in several newspaper stories and she was recognized in 2002 for her work as a trainer for Southeastern Guide Gods, Inc. when she was named "Puppy Raiser of the Year."

next >

Table of Contents

• Expanding the image of care teams
• What are "typical" situations in which C-CUSP care teams might volunteer?
• How would C-CUSP work?
• How do congregational care teams begin a C-CUSP ministry?
• What kinds of skills are needed? Could your pet become a C-CUSP?
• National Health Ministries support for C-CUSP
• Additional information: articles
• Pet partner certification sample test
• More information
• A selected animal facilitated therapy bibliography