Wet noses wanted

Bob Aldrich and therapy dog Finnegan never fail to bring smiles to the faces of YNHH patients – along with plenty of staff members and hospital volunteers. Volunteer Services is accepting applications for its Pet Therapy Program, which offers inpatients the opportunity to bond with certified, fully trained therapy dogs. Every therapy dog is accompanied by his or her owner/trainer at all times throughout the visit. Applicants must meet these guidelines:

• Dogs and handlers can have an AKC Good Citizen certificate as a first step but must hold a Pet Partners (previously Delta Society) or Therapy Dogs International certificate to participate in program.
• Dogs must have an evaluation by a Connecticut veterinarian and a record of vaccines.
• Dogs and handlers must pass an on-site test at the York Street Campus. For information or to apply, contact Volunteer Services, 203-688-2297.