Since 1992, PVAA has recruited, evaluated, supported and educated therapy teams throughout Shawnee County.  Our teams provide comfort and support in hospitals, clinics, retirement centers, libraries, juvenile court, juvenile detention, the cancer center, rehab facilities, schools, and group homes. We also appear at community events upon request.

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Therapy teams improve the emotional, social, and mental health through the human animal bond.  That unique relationship has been scientifically proven to reduce stress indicators such as blood pressure, respiration, and pulse.

What therapy teams do best is provide hope and lift the spirits of people from all walks of life in times of need.

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The demand for therapy teams is greater than the current supply.  PVAA is looking  for animals that easily engage with others, are non-aggressive, and are responsive to basic commands. Human handlers must be able to communicate effectively with their animal, support them during interactions with others, project empathy, and be reliable.

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PVAA offers annual training for its members, social networking opportunities throughout the year, and mentoring for new teams.

Therapy teams change lives. Come be a part of one of the most rewarding volunteer experiences you'll ever find.

Contact us if you have any questions, comments or inquiries (use email form at the bottom of this page).​​