Ongoing Training Requirements for all VPP members

Over the years, ?Visiting Pet? or ?Therapy Pet? programs have become increasingly popular nationwide. Along with this comes an increased need to maintain professionalism and promote therapy pet work. We expect our teams to exhibit quality behavior. We expect our handlers to make smart decisions, manage their pets well, as well as uphold VPP and insurance-based regulations. We strive for a working environment that is safe and enjoyable for all.

In the past few years, healthcare related facilities have become increasingly interested in identifying and mitigating risks. Recently, we have had facilities we visit request documentation of our ?process of member education and training?. These changes in facility's expectations have demonstrated the need for ongoing training and education to take place within our program. This training and education will be referred to as ?Handler Recertification?.

Recertification training enables the VPP to document the implementation of quality management measures to assure ongoing competency. Basically, it means we will all have a refresher course in VPP regulations and methods of handling every two years.

The VPP provides mandatory new member workshop twice a year. In January 2007 we will begin requiring current members to recertify their VPP status by attending a new member workshop every two years. If you attended the new member/buddy workshop in September 2006 you have already met your requirement for recertification.

You will be required to complete your Handler Recertification by January 2008. Please contact Rebecca Breaud at 504-888-7716 or labbies@cox.net to reserve your spot at a workshop. Workshop availability will be on a first come, first served basis. Workshops will be held January 20, 2007, September 15, 2007 and January 12, 2008. All are on Saturday afternoon at the Harahan Senior Center. Please let Rebecca know NOW which of the three dates you would like to attend. This should give everyone ample opportunity to arrange their schedules accordingly.

We hope everyone can understand the need and importance of this ongoing education and training. As the field of pet therapy evolves, let?s all do our part to make sure that the VPP is an innovative leader.

Visiting Pet Program Board of Directors

I learned to share my pet with people who can no longer have their furry friends with them. The people we visit are entertained by the mere presence of him, which is good because he doesn?t know any tricks.

I learned that my pet can communicate with people that aren?t able to speak. Even residents whose ability to speak is severely limited can smile or laugh when visited by a friendly animal. The language of petting appears to be understood by all. Stroking a dog or cat can reduce a person's blood pressure and encourages use of hands and arms.

I learned that animal visits provide the residents something to look forward to and offers something to share with each other after I leave. Many people in hospitals or nursing homes have had to give up pet ownership and they miss the casual acceptance a pet gives them.

I learned that my pet accepts people for who they are, no matter how old or infirm they might be. Which is good for me because I?m not getting any younger.

I learned that I can talk to anybody when the subject is pets. This common interest has started many visits. Even if you have heard the story before, being a good listener allows residents to enjoy their memories by sharing them with you. If your pet has done anything cute be sure to share your story with everyone you talk to.

I learned that my pet has more friends than I do. Nobody ever remembers my name, but quite a few residents remember my pet?s name. People usually become more responsive and active both during and after visiting with animals.

I learned to respect everyone and always ask permission to visit. Doesn?t matter if they are in the hallway, common room or their own room, I need to know if we may enter their personal space. By asking permission to visit, you are enabling the resident to have control over at least one aspect of their life.

I learned to accept that not everyone wants to touch my pet, but they still enjoy the visit very much. While you are visiting, make a point to stop and say ?Hello? to all residents, whether they want to visit with your pet or not.

I learned to say ?Thank you? to anyone that visits with my pet. Treating residents with dignity and respect can improve their self esteem.

I learned how to keep a smile on my face, even when I felt like crying. Sometimes the residents I visit with have stories and health problems that are very sad. I try my best to keep a positive outlook when I am with them.

I learned how important ?commitment? is. Many of the residents I talk with have very few visitors. That makes my time with them much more important and meaningful. The people I have gotten to know in my monthly visits count on me to be there. I wouldn?t want to disappoint them.

Claire Sommers

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