Twice a year Caring Critters conducts a day-long orientation workshop for all incoming volunteers.  The workshop is designed to familiarize the volunteer with all facets of our program.  We present a brief history of animal-assisted therapy and information on various human-animal bond activities throughout the country.   Caring Critters' policies, procedures, rules and requirements are explained in detail.  A nurse acquaints new volunteers with the various populations they may encounter on a visit and offers ways to interact with patients/residents who are mentally or physically challenged.  Other presenters define zoonotic diseases, explain why cross species infection is not a problem, and discuss how to recognize and reduce stress in therapy pets.  The facilities Caring Critters serves are described to enable volunteers to choose the best one suited to them and their pet.  A demonstration of temperament testing rounds out the day. Please Note:  The next Workshop will be held Saturday, March 24, 2012 with Temperament Testing on Saturday, March 31, 2012. Workshop information and applications will be emailed early February. Interested?  To request an application for the next workshop, send your name, home mailing address and phone number to Caring Critters between January 1, 2012 and January 22, 2012. Click Here to send an email or send your request to Caring Critters, Inc., 2260 West Holcombe Blvd, Box 267. Houston, TX 77030.  REMEMBER:  all requests will only be accepted between January 1, 2012 and January 22, 2012.  No requests for applications will be accepted outside of this date range.

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