At Hand in Paw, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we train qualified animals and their owners to work as a team in therapeutic settings. HIP teams become heroes to people of all ages dealing with emotional and physical life challenges. These Therapy Teams deliver positive distraction, motivation, empathy and compassion in several facilities across Central Alabama and Tuscaloosa.
Volunteers are the backbone of this organization and their dedication is unsurpassed.
The research is solid
Animal-Assisted Therapy truly improves lives.
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Our community benefits
We visit several facilities across Birmingham, AL.
WHERE WE SERVE
Our partners support us
They help us grow and serve more people.
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Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. Their dedication and commitment to the community is unsurpassed!
OUR VOLUNTEERS
We do not offer obedience training at Hand in Paw. We are happy to assist you after you complete training to prepare for the final evaluation for Hand in Paw certification.
No, Hand in Paw is a human service organization that provides training and evaluations for therapy animals and their handlers; we do not have any association with service animals. Click here for a guide to different service animal organizations.
Your pet must be at least 2 years old. You must have owned your pet for at least six months. If volunteering with your dog, you and your dog must have completed a basic group obedience class.
Hand in Paw volunteers are required to be at least 18 years old.
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