I am often asked about the time commitment involved with doing therapy dog visits. People want to get involved with therapy dog visiting with their well trained dog, but question whether they will be able to fit it into their schedule. They wonder if they are required to put in a certain about of visiting hours; or if visiting can only occur on a weekday.
Bright Spot Therapy Dogs, Inc. currently has a volunteer force of 75 people – and at least 50% of these folks have regular 9:00-5:00 work schedules. About 35% of the folks are self-employed and have a flexible schedule. The remaining 15% are retired. Fortunately, the list of visiting opportunities we have (over 60 right here where we’re based in Western Massachusetts), offers a wide range of possibilities for weekdays, evenings, and weekends. There literally is something for everyone.
I work mainly from home and have a flexible schedule which allows me to visit my two facilities with James during the day on Wednesdays and Thursdays. These days accommodate the other needs of my weekly schedule. People who visit in hospitals often visit at night after work. This is actually a very good time to visit a hospital because patients are more apt to be in their rooms rather then off having a test or being examined by a physician. You simply would select a visiting location that accommodates your individual schedule and set up your visiting times with the point person at the facility.
Some people visit once every-other-week, others visits as much as 2-3 times weekly. Again, it’s all about what works for you. And, if you want badly enough to do this meaningful activity with your dog, you can make it work for you. Don’t miss out… Many volunteers have told me It’s the best thing they’ve ever done!
I agree that this is something to not miss out on!! I work a full 9am-5pm Monday through Friday outside of the house. My dog and I visits a hospital at least twice a month from 6pm-8pm. Sometimes I am so tired when I am getting ready to go but once I see the look of joy on the patients all my exhaustion falls away. I also know there are plenty of places looking for weekend volunteers. Don’t let this opportunity split away as I agree with, this will be one of if not the best thing you have ever done!
Hi Allison,
Thank you for sharing your volunteer visiting schedule. So often people hold back from getting involved thinking that their work will interfere. I’m so glad you are able to share in the joy people feel from visiting with a certified therapy dog. Perhaps your comments will encourage others to do the same.
All the best…
Cynthia
Dear Cynthia,
I am a follower of Mary Muncil’s blog…found you there. Thank you for your tender, loving and humble approach with your therapy dogs. You are doing such meaningful work and I look forward to reading more! As an animal artist and animal communicator I am always grateful to know of those who are giving their animals not only a life filled with love, but helping them find their purpose!
Dear Debra,
I am thrilled to have found Mary Muncil’s blog – and now to have connected with you! Thank you for your thoughtful comments about my blog. I appreciate you taking the time to let me know. Do you have a blog or a website? If so, please let me know. I’d love to check it out. Hope to stay in touch with you.
Take good care…
Cynthia
Hi Cynthia, Thanks for asking about my website and blog http://www.debrasaum.com/blog/. My mother, when she was alive had a Therapy Dog named Willie..a retired Lhasa Apso show boy who just loved helping hospice folks and visiting the hospitals. Together they were able to touch so many lives. Thank you again for all you do for so many.