Orientation consists of a presentation of the various aspects of animal-assisted therapy work, Lend A Heart structure and procedures, and volunteer obligations.

You and your pet must attend an Orientation TOGETHER. Click here for more details.

  • Orientation presents an opportunity for you to see how your pet adjusts to a new environment with your support – lots of people and lots of pets, in one big room.
  • Orientation seating is limited and is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserve early.
  • You may attend before completing a Volunteer Application Packet. But, this packet needs to be completed prior to scheduling an Evaluation appointment.
  • Review and select a date – Upcoming Orientations.
  • Email RSVP at least one week prior to the Orientation date and submit the online Inquiry Form.

Upcoming Orientations:

Sunday, June 5, 2022 – Park Role-Play (outside) – Ruhkala Park, Rocklin – 10a to 11a

At least one week before, RSVP to smckaig@lendaheart.org. Also, click on and complete our short online Inquiry Form.

We are currently unable to access our usual orientation location…(Check in at 8:30 a.m. Orientation is from 8:45 – 11:45 a.m. Orientations are held at the Sacramento UC Cooperative Extension 4145 Branch Center Road, Sacramento, 95827)

Ready to volunteer?

The packet has three parts:

  • Part 1 – Volunteer Application – Now ONLINE – Click HERE to START Part 1

  • Parts 2 & 3 – To be downloaded, printed, completed, and returned by mail or email (scanned).

    • Part 2 – Obedience and Behavior Verification Form (dogs only), completed by a trainer or behaviorist with you and your dog.

    • Part 3 – Health Screening Form, required for dogs, cats and rabbits. Must be completed by a veterinarian, please attach proof of current rabies vaccination, fecal test results and proof of spay/neuter.

DOWNLOAD & COMPLETE VOLUNTEER APPLICATION PACKET Parts 2 & 3

Steps to Join (click on each link):

Click on each link to walk through the process to become a Lend A Heart volunteer.

Additional details are provided in the Lend A Heart Volunteer and Policy Guide.

Download Volunteer & Policy Guides