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 a Park RolePlay (Orientation) TOGETHER. Click here for more details.

  • Park Role Play (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, at park or one big room.
  • Orientation seating is limited and is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Reserve early.
  • You may not attend until completing an online Volunteer Application Part 1 (link to application is below on this webpage.The entire packet (parts 1,2,3), at least one Park Role Play, and online Training Modules (Orientation 1 & 2) need to be completed prior to scheduling an Evaluation appointment.
  • Upcoming Park Role Plays (Orientations) are announced and posted in Better Impact (our calendar management system).

Upcoming Orientations:

Friday, July 21, 2023 – Park Role-Play (inside or outside, pending weather) – 4145 Branch Center Rd, Sacramento – 6 to 7p
Another Park Role-Play will be in August or September, to be announced…  Next Evaluation is November 4, 2023 (need to have completed all components of application and orientation, to secure an evaluation appointment).

If interested and with one pet, sign up in Better Impact (once you have completed our online volunteer application part 1)  and email us at smckaig@lendaheart.org.

Ready to volunteer with your pet?

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