Yes, cats can be therapy pets too. Here are the requirements and testing information.

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STEP 1: Obedience train your pet. If you need help with this step contact Lori Woodward or Liz Norris for Lexington, Georgetown or Frankfort. In Somerset, KY, contact Robin Van Noy. In Nicholasville, contact Jason Mann.

Step 2: Complete the application (download here in PDF format) and schedule testing with either Liz or Lori and Robin Van Noy. Testing occurs at two locations...Georgetown and Frankfort.

Step 3: If you pass the test, then turn in your paperwork to Liz, Lori or Robin (or send via U.S. mail to our headquarters) and pay membership dues of $35.00 for one dog for each year. Second dog is $10.00 more. The $35.00 fee covers your Identification Badge, Certificate of Achievement and liability insurance. Junior members accepted IF they have a parent or adult mentor. You will need to sign an Owner/Handler Agreement with Pawsibilities Unleashed Pet Therapy stating you agree with our policies and procedures.

Step 4: Complete 10 hours of supervised visits with a current member. Submit your 10 hours of visits to Lori Woodward to receive your permanent ID Badge.

Step 5: Recertification yearly is required. Dogs & Cats must be retested each year.

Cats being evaluated for therapy work should be able to pass the following. All animals must have current vetting records.

Obedience and Control Evaluation:

1. The animal must allow petting by people and must allow it's head, ears, feet, tail, butt (basically all body parts) to be touched and a brush/comb run thru its fur. (Feathered friends can bypass the brush/comb).
2. Is mouthing, biting, dodging, or aggression apparent?
3. Is the animal under control with children of all ages, adults, senior citizen age range, etc.?
4. Is the animal sound sensitive?
5. Does the animal show any signs of fear or shyness?
6. Does the animal appear to have any training difficulties or behavior problems that might interfere with its ability to work as a therapy pet?
7. Would you like this pet to visit you or a relative or yours?