Canine Volunteer Teams

S.P.O.T. (Special Pets Offering TLC)

The S.P.O.T. program at Children's Hospital Central California is a unique and specialized program that provides our patients with an extra dimension in the healing process. Canines and their owners visit patients to provide pet assisted activities, known to contribute to the healing of sick and injured children. S.P.O.T teams also visit the staff to provide a fun change of pace in the hospital routine.

Requirements

To become a S.P.O.T. volunteer at Children’s Hospital, the following requirements must be met:

• The canine must be between 1 and 6 years of age.
• The owner must go through the complete Volunteer Services Program process (See program requirements for more details on the Volunteer Services Program process).
• The canine must be owned by the volunteer for a minimum of one year.
• The canine must have obedience training and documentation to provide proof of completion.
• The canine must be health screened by a Children's Hospital Central California appointed veterinarian.
• The canine must undergo a behavioral exam by a Children's Hospital Central California appointed tester.
• Documentation of vaccinations from a certified veterinarian must be provided initially and on an annual basis.
• A minimum of 10 hours training/mentoring are required in addition to the general volunteer program training.
• The canine is required to be bathed no more than 24 hours prior to each visit to the Hospital.

To be added to our waiting list for the Children’s Hospital Pet Activity Program, please click the link below to submit your information. A Children’s Hospital Volunteer Services staff member will contact you once a position becomes available.  

S.P.O.T. Request Form