Aultman Volunteer Services is proud to offer the Happy Tails animal-assisted activity program, enabling dogs and their handlers to visit hospitalized patients.

Happy Tails handlers go through an 8-hour information session to prepare for next steps in the application process. This is called the handler course. If you're interested in becoming a Happy Tails volunteer, please see the information below.

Getting Started

All Happy Tails volunteers are required to be certified by Pet Partners. This means attending our annual handler course and completing an in-person, scheduled pet evaluation. Registration for the required handler course and evaluation must be done on PetPartners.org by visiting the Volunteer Center to create an account. If you've missed the most recent handler course through Aultman, please visit PetPartners.org for alternative options. 

Helpful Links

• How to become a Pet Partner Handler
• How to create your Volunteer Center account
• What fees are associated with Pet Partners?

Please note: before you and your pet can be evaluated, you must first go through - and complete - an online handler course. This course does not include your dog.

Dog And Handler Application Process

The Happy Tails application process can take up to 6 weeks to complete. Failure to pass or complete any requirement in the application and orientation process will result in the application being denied. 

If you have any questions, please contact Happy Tails Volunteer Coordinator, Lee Kenny at 330-363-6368 or lee.kenny@aultman.com

• Review the Happy Tails Considerations, and the handler and dog team applicant requirements.
• If you and your dog meet our specifications, please complete the Prospective Happy Tails Volunteer Form.
• When invited, complete a full application (including dog application, dog health assessment form, Happy Tails volunteer application and any certifications your dog may have).
• Dog/handler team must pass Pet Partner evaluation.
• Hospital volunteer interview (includes a criminal background check, physician form, a two-part series of a TB test, receive annual flu shot and purchase Happy Tails polo and dog scarf).
• Complete Happy Tails volunteer online orientation, shadow one team without your dog and complete two or three observed patient visits with your dog.