Moffitt's Pet Therapy Program was established over 30 years ago, shortly after Moffitt Cancer Center opened. The program began with only a few dogs, visiting very limited areas of the Center. Today there are over 50 dogs that visit most campuses, including Magnolia, McKinley, Moffitt at International Plaza, Moffitt Business Center and the Stabile Research Building. The Pet Therapy Program is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of patients by offering animal-assisted interactions, activities and therapy in a consistent manner, to ensure the safety of all participants. Volunteer staff liaisons support the pet therapy program at each location with assisted activities including meet and greets for patients, visitors and hospital staff.
All volunteers are required to be registered and remain in good standing with one of the following three pet therapy certifying organizations:
- Pet Partners
- Alliance of Therapy Dogs
- Project PUP
Moffitt Cancer Center offers Pet Therapy certification for dogs onsite, in partnership with Project PUP. You must register and attend a Project PUP information session and screening (Instructions for scheduling the screening will be provided after the information session.) If you are interested in learning more, register to attend a Project PUP information session.
The next online/virtual session is 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, or 6 p.m. Thursday, April 20. The screening is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 6. Please visit the Project PUP website for more details and to register.
Moffitt restricts the following breeds: Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Mastiffs/Bull Mastiffs, Huskies, Wolves and mixed breeds of any of the above. All Moffitt Pet Therapy dogs must also be spayed or neutered.
If your pet is already certified, through Project PUP, Alliance of Therapy Dogs or Pet Partners, view the Steps to Volunteer and register to attend an information session. (Note: Pet therapy volunteers should complete the below Pet Therapy Volunteer online application.)
Apply to be a Pet Therapy Volunteer.
Contact Volunteer Services (813) 745-2254 or email volunteerservices@moffitt.org for more information.
