ABOUT LUV ON A LEASH

Luv on a Leash Therapy Dogs, a project of the Pride Center of Staten Island, places trained, registered therapy dog teams throughout the Staten Island Community. Our dogs and their handlers provide comfort and care in a wide variety of settings including hospitals, extended care and residential facilities, schools, and agencies where therapy dogs can be of benefit. Luv on a Leash is funded through the generosity of The Bruce Geary Foundation.

WHAT IS ANIMAL ASSISTED THERAPY?

At Luv on a Leash, we believe in the power of the human/animal bond to significantly enhance people’s lives. Our specially trained therapy dog teams touch hearts everywhere they go. A growing body of research into the human-animal connection shows the benefits are not just emotional. Studies have shown pets can regulate the cardiovascular system, and even reduce blood pressure. The lives of both the humans and the animals are made better by our mutual bond.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Luv on a Leash is always looking for more teams to join our cadre of dedicated volunteers. The rewards are nothing short of amazing.

Because therapy dogs work with fragile populations in settings that are often unpredictable and stressful, only certain animals are cut out for this work. Our first concern is for your dog’s well-being. It isn’t good enough that your dog merely tolerates the work. It’s a job for outgoing, social dogs who truly enjoy meeting strangers in new environments.

If you think your social butterfly fits the bill, then complete the Luv on a Leash Volunteer Form and make an appointment to come in for a prescreening. At that meeting, we will discuss how you can prepare to become a registered Pet Partners® therapy dog team. The multi-step process gives you important tools you will need when visiting a facility. And Luv on a Leash is there at each step to guide you.

WHERE WE VISIT

Once you are an officially registered Pet Partner®, Luv on a Leash will work with you to find a suitable match among our Staten Island-affiliated facilities. We will continue to support, advocate, and educate you so you can make the most of your volunteer experience.