Pet Therapy Volunteering
TheraPaws Pet Therapy Volunteer Program
Since 1982, Hinsdale Humane Society’s TheraPaws programs have brought comfort, companionship, and connection to people of all ages. Through pet therapy, we extend our care beyond animals, reaching individuals in schools, hospitals, libraries, and senior communities.
To begin volunteering with our Pet-a-Pet program, all teams must have a documented course certification, such as Pet Therapy training, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), or equivalent. You may also participate as a registered Pet Partners team.
We’re proud to offer CGC classes at HHS through our Training & Enrichment Department to help you and your pet get started.
All volunteers must commit to a minimum of 2 hours per month.
We currently offer three unique TheraPaws programs:
Pet-a-Pet Therapy Program
Our original and largest program, Pet-a-Pet sends owner/pet teams to nursing homes, memory care, adult day care, and retirement communities throughout Chicago’s western suburbs. Visits bring warmth, reduce loneliness, and spark memories through meaningful connections.
- Visits last 30–60 minutes, weekday or weekend
- Can be one-on-one room visits or group activities
- Staff members will be present
- Dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs welcome (pending approval)
READ Therapy Program
Started in 2006, our READ program supports children’s literacy in a pressure-free environment. Children read to registered therapy animals in libraries, schools, and educational settings.
- Sessions are 1 hour on weekday evenings or weekends
- Volunteers commit to 1+ visit per month
- Teams must be Pet Partners–registered
- Owners complete READ with Me™ training and assessment
CARe Therapy Program
CARe (Canine Assisted Rehabilitation) began in 2011 and partners with AMITA Health. Therapy dogs work alongside healthcare professionals to help patients meet rehabilitation goals, provide emotional support, and offer comfort in various hospital settings.
- Inpatient visits at Hinsdale, La Grange, and Bolingbrook hospitals
- Includes hospice, behavioral health, and rehab units
- Dogs only for inpatient; cats and guinea pigs may join outpatient and hospice
- Requires Pet Partners registration and hospital approval
- Some roles require additional training
Why Pet Therapy?
Mental Health:
Animals offer unconditional acceptance. They provide comfort, companionship, joy, and emotional support. Interactions can boost self-esteem, empathy, and open the door to safe, healing communication.
Physical Health:
Pet therapy can support fine motor skills, balance, and mobility. Time spent with animals can also lower stress levels, reduce heart rate and blood pressure, and promote overall relaxation.
Education:
Animals create a safe, non-judgmental space for learning. Their presence can motivate students and help build confidence, especially in literacy and communication.
Interested in hearing more about becoming a TheraPaws Volunteer?
More questions? Email our
Pet Therapy Department at [email protected]
Interested in hearing more about becoming a TheraPaws Volunteer?
More questions? Email our
Pet Therapy Department at [email protected]
