Doggie Brigade
Since 1992, the Doggie Brigade™, sponsored by Milk Bone™, has brought joy, comfort and wagging tails to patients at Akron Children's. These four-legged volunteers tour the hallways, visit patients in their rooms and stop in the activity rooms to see children who would like a visit.
Patients often report that for the duration of their 5-10 minute visit, they forget about their illness or pain and feel like a kid. Does your dog have what it takes to become a member of the Doggie Brigade? Find out below!
- At least 18 years old
- Must commit to 26 hospital visits and 2 hospital-sponsored community events each year
- Complete the hospital volunteer process (interview, criminal background check, immunization review, tuberculosis screening, canine behavior evaluation, annual flu shot and training)
- Adhere to all requirements and guidelines of the Akron Children's Doggie Brigade program, including regular bathing/grooming of your dog
- Have the ability to work in a busy, complex hospital environment, be team-oriented, be familiar with dog body language and able to advocate for their dog's needs
- Registered with a hospital-approved therapy dog organization (see therapy dog links for more information)
- Pet Partners -- complex qualification required
- Therapy Dogs International
- The Bright & Beautiful
- At least one year of age or older
- In good physical health and up to date on required vaccinations
- Complete an annual fecal, heartworm and physical veterinary exam
- Enjoy and seek out interactions and
- interact politely with unfamiliar people
- reliably respond to basic cues (sit, down, come, stay, leave it)
- be comfortable in new environments
- be comfortable around other dogs
If your dog meets the above requirements and you are interested in joining the Doggie Brigade, review the Doggie Brigade Information packet and evaluation procedure and complete a volunteer application.
If you have any questions about the program, please contact Volunteer Services at 330-543-8424 or volunteers@akronchildrens.org.
