• Welcome Letter
• Becoming a Dogs On Call Team
• MCV Volunteer Data Sheet
• MCV Volunteer Reference Form
• Policies & Procedures

Thank you for your interest in the Dogs On Call program coordinated by the Center for Human-Animal Interaction in collaboration with the VCU Health System Volunteer Services.

The following information is provided to give you an overview of the Center and give you guidance on become a Dogs On Call team.

Housed within the Department of Psychiatry, in the VCU School of Medicine, the Center for Human-Animal Interaction is the only center of its kind based in a medical school. Dr. Sandra Barker is the director of the Center and, with the Executive Committee, coordinates the many activities of the Center. Representative from other parts of the University and community are involved with the Center along with, of course, our wonderful volunteers.

Our mission is to enhance health and well being through human-animal interaction. To accomplish that goal, the Center's work is focused in three areas:

• Education-medical school electives, internships, and curriculum topics;
• Research-studies on the effects of human-animal interaction by faculty and staff; and
• Clinical Service-Pet Loss Support Group sponsored by area veterinarians, individual pet loss counseling, the Dogs on Call (D.O.C.) hospital animal assisted therapy and pet visitation program.

Volunteer opportunities exist in all of the Center's activities. To become a DOC team, you and your dog must satisfy the volunteer requirements outlined in the policies and procedures. The links provided on this page include the information and forms to help you through the process of becoming a Dogs On Call team. Our teams are allowed in most areas of the hospital and are welcomed by staff and patients alike. It is truly a great volunteer experience.

Should you have any questions regarding Center activities, volunteering with, or supporting the Dogs on Call Program, please contact the Center Program Coordinator at Dekey@vcu.edu Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer.

The Center depends on the support of individuals like you who understand the importance of the human-animal bond.