Application for Training

Please note - this application and it's delivery is adversely affected by browers
other than Internet Explorer.  If you utilize a browser other than Internet Explorer,
please print, complete and mail this application to the following address:
READing Paws
118 Beacon Pointe Drive
Ocoee, FL  34761

Please provide the following contact information:

First Name
Last Name
Street Address
Address (cont.)
City
State
Zip
Work Phone
Home Phone
Cell Phone
FAX
E-mail

Describe any training and/or titles you and your dog have accomplished or are currently pursuing. e.g., Obedience, CGC, Agility, etc.)

Participation in our program requires registration with one of the national therapy dog organizations.
Are you a nationally registered therapy team?

If yes:

Delta Society
Therapy Dogs Inc.
Therapy Dogs International
Love on a Leash

Therapy Dog Member # or Delta Pet Partner ID #
Registration Expiration Date                             
Dog's Call Name                                             
For TD Inc ONLY - dog's registration #               

If you have more than one Therapy Dog - please fill out the same information for them:

Dog's Call Name                                        
For TD Inc Only - Dog's Registration Number

Are you currently pursuing Therapy Dog Registration with one of the nationally registered organizations? Pull Down to Select Yes No

Dog's Call Name 

Are you interested in becoming a "dog-less" volunteer with READing Paws? Pull Down to Select Yes No

Please tell us how you heard about READing Paws?

Please tell us why you feel you and your dog make a great therapy team.

Once an applicant has completed the R.E.A.D. Training, registered with the national R.E.A.D. organization you may become a member of READing Paws  Below are the Membership Terms and Conditions for READing Paws.  Please read over carefully before signing at the bottom.

MEMBERSHIP TERMS AND CONDITIONS

 We find that having a clear understanding between our organization and its volunteers helps things go smoothly and avoids potential difficulties. Also, although our R.E.A.D. program is made up of volunteers, it is by no means casual, trivial or careless. All of our teams receive extensive training, undergo background checks and must go through detailed preparation for each visit. They do their best to conduct themselves with sensitivity and professionalism. This is the cornerstone of our work.

With those things in mind, READing Paws has adopted guidelines for an appropriate dress code.  While participating in READing Paws visits, handlers must themselves be clean, appear well groomed, and without influence of alcohol and/or drugs that would impair safety or judgment.  While comfortable and casual clothing with an emphasis on neatness and professionalism is acceptable, skimpy or tight-fitting attire including short-shorts, tank tops, and bare midriffs are not allowed. In addition to any READing Paws dress code, you must adhere to the dress code of the facility where you are visiting. e.g. blue jeans, sleeveless tops, and open-toed shoes are not acceptable in most settings where we volunteer. Wear sensible and safe walking shoes (ie. no flip-flops, high heels, spike heels or shoes without backs).  We are professionals and appearances are very important and memorable. The first impression of our READing Paws Teams will be the public’s lasting impression.  We must never forget the proverbial fishbowl that we work in with dogs in public places such as schools, libraries, and bookstores.

In addition, while it is enjoyable and fun for the Team and child, the use of costumes and/or tricks is also strictly prohibited. While READing Paws does believe that there is a time and a place for these activities, during a R.E.A.D. session is not it.

Upon completion of your R.E.A.D. training and the culmination of your Therapy Dog training, two shadowing visits are required. The first shadowing visit is without your dog. This allows you to focus on the R.E.A.D. session at hand. It gives you the opportunity to observe intently and ask questions. The second shadowing visit is with your dog working alongside an experienced team. The experienced team is immediately available should you need assistance. You may conduct as many shadowing visits as you deem necessary in order to feel completely comfortable or until READing Paws feels that you are ready to go out on your own.

Once you have begun working, you may identify a school, library or bookstore in your community that you feel would be perfect for this program. READing Paws has specific processes and procedures in place for approaching new venues. We have worked extremely hard to develop a professional relationship with the business and school community and we want to continue to tread lightly and be the utmost in professionals in this regard. READing Paws works in concert with our volunteers to approach new venues.  We have set high standards and we expect our volunteers to uphold them and portray them to the public in the same manner. Thus, contact your Chapter President or the Chairman of READing Paws for further instructions.

I have read and understand the terms and conditions of membership listed above.

Date:

Please electronically sign this form by typing your name:

If you do not receive an acknowledgement of this application within a week, please send an email with this link:

Merilee@READingPaws.org