All P.A.T. visitors and their dogs work on a voluntary basis. All new dogs must pass a temperament assessment and health check. The dog must be fully vaccinated, wormed and protected against fleas, and have been in your ownership for at least 9 months and living in your care for at least 6 months. No special training is required and you will be given some helpful notes from the P.A.T. office to assist you when you start visiting.

P.A.T. dogs come in all shapes and sizes. If you can spare some time on a regular basis and if you think your dog might be suitable, read more on the ‘visiting scheme’ section of the P.A.T. website www.petsastherapy.org or contact them for more information on 0870 240 1239.

Maureen Hennis, one of the Pets As Therapy directors, said to D for Dog:

“Visiting with a registered PAT dog is just about the kindest gift a dog owner could offer. To change tears to smiles and to see the faces light up when your dog is taken into a home or onto a ward is the most wonderful experience for our volunteers. The benefits to patients of all ages are innumerable.”

Launch of new membership package for supporters
Not every dog makes a suitable P.A.T. dog and not every owner has the time to commit to regular visits. The organisation has announced a membership level for people who want to support the charity but can't commit to visits. Joining Pets As Therapy as a Non-visiting member will enable you to still be a part of this very special charity and help support the valuable work they do. As a non-visiting member you will enjoy third party liability insurance, be entitled to enter the Breed Stakes Classes, and will receive a P.A.T. membership card, welcome pack and catalogue.

For more information on the P.A.T. Visiting and Non-visiting schemes, and to learn more about the work they do and the ways you can help, visit the Pets As Therapy website www.petsastherapy.org or call 0870 240 1239 or email reception@petsastherapy.org.