Anna & Esther: A Pet Therapy Team in the Making

Why Esther’s Health and Vaccinations Matter in Therapy Work

When people see a therapy dog like Esther, they often notice her calm presence, her gentle eyes, and her comforting energy. What they might not realize is how much care goes into the background to ensure she’s healthy, safe, and ready to serve others.

Therapy animals are ambassadors of health and compassion, and that begins with their own well-being. A visit can only be meaningful if it’s safe for everyone involved: the clients, the staff, and the animal partner.

That’s why maintaining excellent health and current vaccinations aren’t just recommendations; they’re requirements for Pet Partners registration and a moral responsibility for every handler.

🐾 Wellness Is the Foundation of Trust

Before Esther and I can walk into a facility, whether it’s a hospice, a children’s hospital, or a nursing home, I must be sure she’s in top condition. Pet Partners requires that all therapy animals:

• Have annual veterinary exams
• Stay up to date on core vaccinations (rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and bordetella)
• Be free of parasites and on year-round flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
• Show no signs of illness or injury before a visit
• Maintain a healthy coat, clean ears, and trimmed nails

If a therapy animal isn’t feeling their best, even something small, like an upset stomach or fatigue, the visit should be postponed. The people we meet deserve our full presence, and our animals deserve rest and care when they need it.

🌼 Caring Goes Both Ways

As handlers, we ask so much of our animals: patience, gentleness, and focus in busy environments. The least we can do is care for their health with the same dedication they offer others.

Keeping Esther healthy isn’t just about rules or paperwork; it’s about love. It’s the promise I make to her as my partner: that her comfort, safety, and happiness always come first. Because only when she’s thriving can she share that same healing energy with others.