Pet Therapy Volunteer Opportunities
Moffitt's Pet Therapy Program was established over 30 years ago, shortly after Moffitt Cancer Center opened its doors. The program began with only a few dogs, visiting very limited areas of the center. Today, there are over 50 dogs that visit most campuses, including Magnolia, McKinley, Moffitt at International Plaza, Moffitt Business Center and the Stabile Research Building. The Pet Therapy Program is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of patients by offering animal-assisted interactions, activities and therapy in a consistent manner, to ensure the safety of all participants. Volunteer staff liaisons support the pet therapy program at each location with assisted activities including meet-and-greets for patients, visitors and hospital staff.
All volunteers are required to be registered and remain in good standing with one of the following pet therapy certifying organizations:
- Alliance of Therapy Dogs
- Project PUP
Moffitt Cancer Center offers Pet Therapy certification for dogs on-site, in partnership with Project PUP. Project PUP offers a three-week class to prepare you for Therapy Dog visits with your pup, with an evaluation on the last day. This course equips you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to form a certified Therapy Dog team with your canine companion. The next onsite 3-week class at Moffitt will be on January 17th, 24th and 31st, from 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM in the SRB Ferman Family Room.
Attendance is required for all three classes. Find more information about the certification classes. If you cannot attend the class at Moffitt, Project PUP also offers classes in Clearwater.
Moffitt restricts the following breeds: pit bulls, Rottweilers, German shepherds, mastiffs/bull mastiffs, huskies, wolves and any mixed-breed dogs mentioned before. All Moffitt Pet Therapy dogs must also be spayed or neutered.
Once you have certified your pet through Project PUP or Alliance of Therapy Dogs, the next step is to attend a mandatory virtual information session. Information sessions are held on the last Tuesday of every month, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Click here to attend the information session.
Contact Volunteer Services (813) 745-2254 or email volunteerservices@Moffitt.org for more information.