How to Become an Animal Therapy Handler (Bark Away the Blues!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of working closely with animals to positively impact people’s lives, or wondered what it takes to become an animal therapy handler, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to take to start your career as an animal therapy handler. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The training that can enhance your abilities.
How to secure a job as an animal therapy handler.

So, whether you’re a budding animal enthusiast or a seasoned professional looking to switch careers, stay tuned.

We’re about to uncover the roadmap to becoming an animal therapy handler.

Let’s get started!

Contents show

Steps to Become an Animal Therapy Handler

Step 1: Understand the Role and Its Importance

Being an Animal Therapy Handler is a rewarding job that involves working with animals, specifically trained therapy pets, to provide therapeutic support to individuals in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and rehabilitation centers.

The main role of an Animal Therapy Handler is to facilitate interactions between the therapy pet and the individuals receiving therapy.

This role is critical as animal therapy has been proven to reduce stress, anxiety, and pain levels in individuals, and it also aids in improving social, emotional, or cognitive functioning.

Understanding the role also means understanding the animal’s needs and ensuring their well-being.

As an Animal Therapy Handler, you have the responsibility to handle, train, and care for the therapy pets, ensuring they are comfortable and ready for each therapy session.

You should also be aware of the specific needs and reactions of the people you’re working with, as each person will respond differently to therapy.

This requires empathy, patience, and excellent communication skills.

If you have a passion for helping others and a love for animals, this could be the perfect career for you.

Prior to embarking on this career path, it is essential to fully understand the significance and responsibilities of the role.

Step 2: Gain Experience with Animals

Once you have a solid understanding of animal behavior, it is crucial to gain hands-on experience working with animals.

Volunteering or working at local animal shelters, veterinary clinics, farms, or wildlife reserves can provide invaluable experience.

Such opportunities offer direct interaction with various animal species and allow for understanding their distinct behaviors, needs, and responses.

You could also consider working or interning at a facility that offers animal therapy services.

This will not only give you experience with animals but also expose you to the specific requirements of the animal therapy field.

During this step, it’s important to develop a comfort level around animals and learn how to handle them safely and effectively.

Experience in training animals could be particularly beneficial, as many therapy animals need to be well-trained and be able to follow commands.

If possible, gain experience with different types of animals such as dogs, horses, or even exotic animals.

This broad experience will be useful since different therapy programs use different animals depending on the needs of the clients.

Remember, the aim here is to gain as much practical experience as possible to build your skills and confidence in dealing with animals, which is an essential aspect of being an Animal Therapy Handler.

Step 3: Pursue Relevant Education

Getting the right education is an essential step to becoming an Animal Therapy Handler.

While a high school diploma is the minimum requirement, it is recommended to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, or Animal Behavior.

These degree programs typically cover subjects like animal anatomy, animal care, animal behavior, nutrition, and health.

Many colleges and universities also offer courses specifically designed for those interested in animal therapy.

These classes provide an understanding of the therapeutic benefits of animal interaction, the role of animals in mental and physical health, and the methods and techniques used in animal-assisted therapy.

In addition to the academic curriculum, it’s crucial to gain hands-on experience working with animals.

This could be achieved through internships, volunteering at animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or farms.

It’s also beneficial to seek out training or certification programs that are specifically designed for animal therapy handlers.

These programs provide comprehensive training on animal handling, safety protocols, and techniques for therapeutic interactions.

Remember that ongoing education is important as new techniques and research emerge in the field of animal therapy.

Continued learning will not only make you more adept at your job but also enhance your credibility and effectiveness as an Animal Therapy Handler.

Step 4: Get Certified as an Animal Handler

In order to become a professional Animal Therapy Handler, obtaining relevant certification is crucial.

This entails completing a recognized training program that focuses on animal behavior, obedience training, and safety procedures.

These programs often provide an in-depth understanding of animal psychology, their physical needs, and their interaction with humans.

Certification programs may vary in length and curriculum.

Some programs may require practical training or an apprenticeship where you work alongside experienced handlers.

Others might ask for a certain number of training hours with your animal.

Remember, the goal is to ensure that both you and your animal are well-prepared and comfortable in a therapy setting.

The certification process usually ends with an examination that tests both your theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Passing this exam will earn you an official certification as an Animal Therapy Handler.

This certification often needs to be renewed periodically, to ensure that you are up-to-date with the latest practices and techniques in the field.

Remember to choose a certification program that is accredited and recognized by professional animal therapy organizations.

This not only enhances your credibility as a handler but also increases your job prospects in the field.

Step 5: Specialize in Therapy Training Techniques

As you progress in your role as an animal therapy handler, it’s important to develop a specialization in different therapy training techniques.

This could involve focusing on a specific type of therapy such as physical therapy, emotional support therapy, or even therapeutic riding.

Depending on the type of therapy you specialize in, you may need to learn different training methods and understand the nuances of working with different types of animals.

For instance, training a dog for physical therapy would involve different techniques compared to training a horse for therapeutic riding.

Specializing in a specific therapy training technique can make you a valuable asset in the field of animal therapy.

In addition, it can also allow you to work more closely with certain types of patients and build a more rewarding career.

Remember to constantly keep abreast of the latest research and innovations in your chosen field of specialization.

This not only ensures that you remain relevant, but that you are able to provide the best possible care for the animals and the humans they are helping.

Moreover, consider getting certified in your specialized therapy training technique.

This can greatly enhance your credibility and increase your opportunities in the field.

Step 6: Build a Strong Human-Animal Team

Building a strong human-animal team is crucial as an Animal Therapy Handler.

This goes beyond simple pet ownership; it requires a strong, trusting, and respectful relationship between you and the therapy animal.

You will need to spend a lot of time with the animal to build rapport and understand its behaviors, responses, and comfort zones.

When choosing an animal for therapy work, you should consider the temperament, health, and adaptability of the animal.

It is advisable to choose animals that are calm, friendly, and comfortable around people.

The animal must also be healthy, as they will be interacting with people who may have compromised immune systems.

Training is another integral part of building a strong human-animal team.

The animal should be trained to follow basic commands and remain calm in various environments.

There are specific training programs designed for therapy animals that can help you with this process.

Being an Animal Therapy Handler also requires you to understand and manage the welfare of the therapy animal.

The animal should not be overstressed or overworked.

It’s important to be vigilant about signs of stress or fatigue in the animal and give them plenty of downtime between sessions.

Remember, the goal is to form a team that provides comfort, reduces anxiety, and brings joy to those who interact with you and your animal.

Step 7: Volunteer to Gain Field Experience

Volunteering is an essential step to gain practical experience in the field of animal therapy.

This can help you to understand the day-to-day realities of the role of an animal therapy handler, and allow you to apply the theories and skills you have learned during your training in a real-world setting.

You could volunteer at animal shelters, rehabilitation centers, or vet clinics to start with.

This not only provides you with hands-on experience but also gives you the opportunity to network with professionals in the field.

Another key area to volunteer in is facilities that provide therapy sessions.

These could be hospitals, schools, retirement homes, or mental health facilities.

Here, you would get the opportunity to observe how therapy sessions are conducted, understand the interaction between animals and clients, and learn about the safety protocols and ethics of therapy sessions.

The more varied your volunteer experience, the more well-rounded your skill set will be.

You will also gain a deeper understanding of the types of environments you may work in as an animal therapy handler, and be better prepared for the challenges of the job.

You may even find a specific area you are particularly interested in and decide to specialize in it.

Step 8: Understand the Needs of Different Client Populations

As an animal therapy handler, it is crucial for you to understand the varying needs of different client populations.

These populations may include children, individuals with disabilities, elderly patients, or those dealing with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Each of these groups has unique needs and responds differently to animal therapy.

For instance, children may need animals that are gentle and easy to interact with, while individuals with physical disabilities might benefit from larger animals like dogs that can be trained to assist with mobility.

Elderly patients often find comfort and companionship in smaller, calm animals, while those with mental health disorders might benefit from the unconditional love and soothing presence of a therapy animal.

Being aware of these differences and how to cater to them is fundamental in your role as an animal therapy handler.

This understanding can be enhanced through studying literature on the subject, attending workshops and seminars, or through firsthand experience during your training phase.

Furthermore, it might be beneficial to collaborate with healthcare professionals such as therapists or social workers who can provide insights into the specific needs of their clients.

This can help tailor your approach to ensure the most effective therapy sessions.

Remember that the ultimate goal is to provide comfort, happiness, and positive stimulation for the clients through the companionship of your therapy animals.

Step 9: Stay Informed on Animal Therapy Research and Legislation

Continuing education and remaining informed about the latest advancements in animal therapy research and legislation is an important part of being an Animal Therapy Handler.

This involves regularly reviewing scientific studies, attending conferences, participating in relevant webinars, and maintaining memberships with professional organizations within the field.

Staying current with the latest research can improve your effectiveness as a handler by providing new insights and techniques to incorporate into your sessions.

Understanding ongoing and emerging legislation related to animal therapy is also essential.

This includes being aware of changes to licensing requirements, insurance regulations, and any new laws that could impact your practice.

Consider subscribing to professional journals, newsletters and alerts related to animal therapy.

Participate in discussions and forums with other professionals in the field to share insights and experiences.

Regularly attending seminars and workshops will also keep you updated on the latest best practices in animal therapy.

Remember, being an Animal Therapy Handler is not just about having a job, but also about being an advocate for the benefits of animal-assisted therapy.

By staying informed and active in the field, you can contribute to its growth and effectiveness.

Step 10: Obtain Employment or Start a Service Program

Once you have completed your training, gained relevant experience and received your certification, the next step is to find employment as an Animal Therapy Handler or start your own therapy service program.

You may be hired by healthcare institutions such as hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers to work with patients.

Schools and universities are another potential employment avenue, as they often integrate therapy animals into their student health programs.

Additionally, you could work with non-profit organizations that offer animal therapy services to various communities.

In the case that you decide to start your own service program, you’ll need to consider several factors.

You’ll need to ensure that your therapy animals are well-cared for and that their health and safety needs are met.

You’ll also need to develop a business plan, secure funding, and market your services to potential clients.

Starting your own program can be a rewarding endeavor, but it also requires a great deal of commitment and responsibility.

Regardless of the path you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to enhance the lives of individuals through the therapeutic power of animals.

This career not only allows for interactions with animals but also provides immense satisfaction in knowing that you are making a significant positive impact on the health and well-being of people.

Step 11: Maintain Certification and Continue Education

As an Animal Therapy Handler, it is essential to keep your certification current and continue your education.

Most certifying organizations require handlers to renew their certification periodically, usually every two to three years.

This often involves a re-certification process that may include taking an examination, attending a course, or demonstrating continued competence in the field.

Continuing education is also crucial in this ever-evolving field.

Stay current with the latest research, techniques, and best practices in animal therapy by attending workshops, conferences, or online courses.

This will not only help you maintain your certification, but it will also make you more effective and knowledgeable in your work.

You might want to consider specializing in a specific area of animal therapy, such as equine-assisted therapy, canine therapy, or even therapy with exotic animals.

Specializing can make you more valuable to certain types of clients and can lead to more job opportunities.

Staying involved in the professional community can also be beneficial.

Joining professional associations for animal therapy handlers can provide networking opportunities, resources for continuing education, and updates on industry news and trends.

This can help you stay connected and informed, and it can enhance your credibility as a professional in the field.

Step 12: Network Within Animal Therapy Communities

Networking is a crucial aspect of any profession, and being an Animal Therapy Handler is no exception.

Whether you’re looking to learn new therapy techniques, discover job opportunities, or simply connect with like-minded professionals, networking within animal therapy communities can open many doors for you.

One way to start networking is by joining local and national animal therapy organizations.

These organizations often host conferences, seminars, and workshops where you can meet other animal therapy handlers, learn from them, and exchange ideas.

It’s an excellent opportunity to stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in the field.

Online platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social media channels also provide a platform to connect with other professionals globally.

Join animal therapy groups, participate in discussions, and share your experiences.

This helps establish your online presence and credibility within the field.

Volunteering at animal shelters, rehabilitation centers, and therapy sessions can also provide networking opportunities.

It allows you to interact with other professionals and learn from their practical experiences.

Plus, volunteering often leads to job opportunities as you are proving your dedication and skills in the field.

Remember, networking is about building relationships.

Engage in meaningful conversations, show genuine interest in others’ work, and offer help when you can.

Building a strong network can provide the support and opportunities necessary for a successful career as an Animal Therapy Handler.

Animal Therapy Handler Roles and Responsibilities

Animal Therapy Handlers work with animals that have been trained to provide comfort and support to individuals in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other settings.

They are responsible for the care, training, and handling of these animals, and also manage the interactions between the animals and individuals receiving therapy.

They have the following roles and responsibilities:

Animal Care

Maintain the health, safety, and well-being of therapy animals.
Ensure animals receive regular health check-ups and vaccinations.
Feed, groom, and exercise animals regularly.

Training

Train animals to be comfortable and obedient in a variety of settings.
Teach animals appropriate behaviors for therapeutic interactions.
Keep up-to-date with latest animal training techniques.

Therapy Sessions

Facilitate interactions between therapy animals and individuals.
Monitor the animal’s behavior and intervene if necessary.
Evaluate the effectiveness of therapy sessions and make necessary adjustments.

Communication

Communicate effectively with individuals, families, and healthcare providers.
Educate others about the benefits and procedures of animal therapy.
Report any problems or concerns to the appropriate parties.

Documentation

Keep detailed records of each animal’s training, behavior, and health.
Document each therapy session and report progress.

Professional Development

Stay informed about the latest developments in animal therapy.
Obtain and maintain relevant certifications.
Participate in professional organizations and networks.

Safety and Compliance

Adhere to all relevant laws and guidelines regarding animal therapy.
Ensure all interactions are safe and beneficial for both the animal and the individual.

Public Awareness

Promote the benefits of animal therapy through various channels.
Organize events and presentations to increase public awareness.

What Does an Animal Therapy Handler Do?

Animal Therapy Handlers, also known as Animal-Assisted Therapy Handlers, work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and rehabilitation centers to provide therapeutic interventions with the help of animals.

They work closely with therapists, psychologists, and medical professionals to plan and provide animal-assisted therapy sessions.

These sessions can help individuals with a wide range of conditions, including mental health disorders, developmental disorders, physical disabilities, and chronic illnesses.

Animal Therapy Handlers are responsible for selecting suitable animals for therapy sessions, usually dogs, cats, or horses, but can also include small animals like rabbits or guinea pigs.

The selection is based on the animal’s temperament, trainability, and comfort with humans.

Their job is to train the animals to behave appropriately in therapeutic settings, and to interact positively with clients.

The handler also ensures the well-being and safety of the animal during therapy sessions.

Handlers work with clients, guiding them in how to interact with the animals in a safe and beneficial way.

This might involve petting, feeding, grooming, or simply being in the animal’s presence, depending on the therapy goals.

Animal Therapy Handlers are also responsible for maintaining records of therapy sessions, noting the client’s progress, and reporting back to the responsible healthcare or social service professional.

Their work can have a significant positive impact on individuals, helping to reduce stress, improve social and cognitive function, increase self-esteem, and promote overall physical and mental well-being.

Essential Animal Therapy Handler Skills

Animal Handling: Animal Therapy Handlers must have strong animal handling skills. They should understand animal behavior and be comfortable working with a variety of animal species.
Empathy: Handlers should possess a deep sense of empathy, not just for animals, but for the people they are helping too. Understanding the emotional needs of others is key in this role.
Patience: Working with animals and individuals who may be going through physical or emotional distress requires a lot of patience.
Communication: Clear communication skills are essential. Handlers need to effectively communicate with the animal, the client, and any other involved healthcare professionals.
Knowledge of Therapy Techniques: Handlers should be familiar with a variety of animal therapy techniques and understand how different animals can aid in different types of therapy.
Physical Fitness: This job can be physically demanding, so handlers should be in good physical health and have the ability to manage larger animals if necessary.
Training Skills: Animal therapy handlers should be able to train the animals to behave properly during therapy sessions. Knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques is beneficial.
Adaptability: Every client is different, and their needs will vary. Handlers should be adaptable and able to adjust therapy methods as needed.
Crisis Management: In unexpected situations, like an animal reacting negatively or a client having a medical emergency, the handler must remain calm and manage the situation effectively.
Understanding of Confidentiality: Handlers should respect the privacy of their clients and adhere to confidentiality regulations in healthcare settings.
Professionalism: Maintaining a professional demeanor and demonstrating respect for all clients and healthcare professionals is a must.
Problem-solving: The ability to identify and solve problems quickly and efficiently is essential, whether it concerns animal behavior or client interactions.
Teamwork: Often, animal therapy handlers work as part of a larger healthcare team. The ability to collaborate and work well with others is crucial in this role.
First Aid: Basic knowledge of first aid, particularly for animals, can be a valuable skill in emergency situations.
Passion: A genuine love for animals and the desire to improve the wellbeing of clients are important driving factors in this role.

Animal Therapy Handler Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Animal Therapy Handler

Starting your career as a Junior Animal Therapy Handler, you’ll be working closely with trained therapy animals and assisting senior handlers in conducting therapy sessions.

Your responsibilities will include basic animal care, preparation for therapy sessions, and assisting with documentation.

Animal Care and Behavior Knowledge: Understand the basic care and behavior patterns of different therapy animals.
Patience and Empathy: Working in therapeutic environments requires a lot of patience and a deep understanding of the patient’s needs.
Gain Practical Experience: Take active participation in therapy sessions and learn from experienced handlers.

The Ascent: Animal Therapy Handler

With experience and confidence, you’ll progress to the role of an Animal Therapy Handler.

This involves leading therapy sessions, maintaining animal health, and training therapy animals.

Here are some tips for this stage:

Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest practices in animal-assisted therapy.
Animal Training Skills: Learn and implement advanced techniques for training therapy animals.
Communication Skills: Build strong communication skills to interact effectively with patients, healthcare providers, and families.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Animal Therapy Handler

As a Senior Animal Therapy Handler, you’ll be recognized for your expertise and will be responsible for mentoring new handlers, setting therapy goals, and making significant decisions related to animal care and patient treatment.

Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with junior handlers and help them grow in their roles.
Advanced Therapy Techniques: Learn and implement advanced animal-assisted therapy techniques to provide the most effective treatment.
Leadership: Lead therapy sessions and inspire others with your empathetic approach and passion for helping patients.

Beyond the Horizon: Animal Therapy Coordinator or Director

Moving forward, you might step into roles such as Animal Therapy Coordinator or Director.

In these positions, you’ll oversee the entire therapy program, make strategic decisions, and manage a team of handlers.

Program Management: Efficiently manage and coordinate animal therapy programs.
Team Leadership: Develop leadership and team management skills to guide your team effectively.
Innovation: Stay updated with the latest research in animal-assisted therapy and implement innovative therapy methods.

Pinnacle of Success: Executive Director of Animal Therapy

At the apex of this career path, you may become the Executive Director of Animal Therapy.

Here, you’ll be responsible for setting the overall strategic direction of the therapy program, influencing policy, and leading larger teams.

You’ll also advocate for the benefits of animal-assisted therapy and contribute to research in the field.

Animal Therapy Handler Salary

Entry-Level Animal Therapy Handler

Median Salary: $25,000 – $35,000 per year
Entry-level Animal Therapy Handlers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold an associate’s degree or certification in animal therapy or related fields. They are primarily responsible for assisting in therapy sessions and taking care of therapy animals.

Mid-Level Animal Therapy Handler

Median Salary: $35,000 – $50,000 per year
Mid-level handlers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more responsibilities including planning therapy sessions, training therapy animals, and maintaining animal health and wellness records.

Senior Animal Therapy Handler

Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
Senior handlers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for overseeing therapy sessions, coordinating with healthcare professionals, and mentoring junior handlers.

Animal Therapy Supervisor / Manager

Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000+ per year
These roles come with significant experience and involve supervising therapy sessions, managing a team of handlers, and maintaining relationships with healthcare facilities.

Director of Animal Therapy

Median Salary: $80,000 – $100,000+ per year
These high-level positions require extensive experience and often involve setting strategic direction for an animal therapy program, overseeing all handlers, and working closely with senior management of healthcare facilities.

Animal Therapy Handler Work Environment

Animal Therapy Handlers primarily work in diverse healthcare settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, psychiatric facilities, and nursing homes where therapy animals are required to assist with patient recovery and emotional well-being.

These professionals may also work in schools or special education settings where therapy animals can aid in reducing anxiety and improving the social skills of students.

Animal Therapy Handlers often have flexible schedules based on the needs of their clients, which can include both individuals and institutions.

With sufficient experience and a trusted therapy animal, an Animal Therapy Handler may choose to start their own therapy practice, offering services on a contract basis to a variety of institutions and private clients.

Travel is a common part of the job as handlers take therapy animals to different locations to meet with clients.

The work environment can be both physically and emotionally demanding, as handlers need to manage their therapy animals and also provide emotional support to the clients.

FAQs About Becoming an Animal Therapy Handler

What qualifications do I need to become an Animal Therapy Handler?

To become an Animal Therapy Handler, you typically need to have at least a high school diploma or GED.

Some employers may require a bachelor’s degree in fields such as animal science, psychology, social work, or a related field.

It’s also beneficial to have volunteer or work experience with animals.

Certification as a professional handler, such as those offered by Pet Partners or similar organizations, can be a huge asset.

Essential skills include empathy, patience, excellent communication, and a genuine love for animals.

How long does it take to become an Animal Therapy Handler?

The time to become an Animal Therapy Handler varies depending on your prior experience with animals and any relevant educational courses you undertake.

It might take a few weeks to several months to acquire the necessary skills and certifications.

It also includes the time spent in volunteer roles to gain hands-on experience with animals in therapeutic settings.

Can I become an Animal Therapy Handler without a degree?

Yes, you can become an Animal Therapy Handler without a formal degree.

While a degree can enhance your knowledge and may open up more opportunities, it is not strictly required.

The main requirements include gaining experience in handling animals, knowledge about animal behavior, and obtaining a certification as a professional handler.

Volunteering at local shelters, rescue centers, or therapeutic programs is a great way to gain valuable experience.

Is being an Animal Therapy Handler a stressful job?

Being an Animal Therapy Handler can be stressful at times due to the emotional nature of the work, dealing with clients who have various physical and emotional needs, and handling animals who may be unpredictable.

However, it can also be deeply rewarding and fulfilling, especially when you see the positive impact that animal-assisted therapy can have on people’s lives.

Having a deep love for animals and possessing stress management skills can help manage the demanding aspects of the job.

What is the job outlook for Animal Therapy Handlers in the next decade?

The demand for Animal Therapy Handlers is expected to increase in the next decade.

This is due to growing awareness and recognition of the benefits of animal-assisted therapy in various fields, including mental health, physical rehabilitation, and education.

As a result, opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private practice are likely to expand.

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap.

Embarking on a path to becoming an Animal Therapy Handler is an extraordinary commitment, but the payoff is truly fulfilling.

Equipped with the right expertise, training, and passion, you’re on the path to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals and animals alike.

Remember, the journey may be demanding, but the rewards are boundless. Your contribution could lead to breakthroughs in therapy and rehabilitation, changing the way we approach health and healing.

So, take the plunge. Dive deep into learning. Connect with professionals. And most importantly, never stop caring for and understanding animals.

Because the world is waiting to see the change you can make.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in Animal Therapy Handling, consult our AI Career Path Advisor.

This complimentary tool is designed to provide tailored advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career journey.

Pushing Boundaries: Careers Where Stress is Just Another Day at the Office!

Career Gold: The Definitive List of Highest Paying Jobs in 2025!

The Rise of AI: Jobs That Are Heading Towards Automation

Work and Play Combined: Amazing Jobs That Also Fill Your Wallet

The Employment Express: Fastest Growing Careers of the Era