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 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. Breed restrictions do not apply to screenings or testing of pet therapy interested dogs.
We are excited to announce our new collaboration with Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD). Moffitt will host on-site ATD screening sessions, to evaluate your dog’s readiness for Pet Therapy Certification testing. Upon successful screening clearance, you will be invited to proceed to the testing phase. Additional information regarding the testing process will be provided during the screening session(s).
The next on-site ATD screenings will take place on:
- Thursday, July 30th from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday, October 8th from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
- Thursday, December 10th from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
In order to be eligible for a screening, please complete the following steps:
- Register for the session here.
- Complete the ATD Liability Waiver here.
- Email the signed liability waiver and your dog’s most up-to-date vaccination records to vsdocuments@moffitt.org
Vaccination records must be current within one year of the screening date you are registering for.
All required documents must be submitted no later than one week from the date of your registration in order to maintain eligibility.
Once you have registered, submitted all required documentation, and received clearance from ATD regarding your dog’s vaccination records, you will be contacted by Volunteer Services with your final registration confirmation.
Contact Volunteer Services (813) 745-2254 or email volunteerservices@Moffitt.org for more information.