Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) have become a powerful tool for professionals in fields such as healthcare, education, and therapy. If you’re considering adding AAI to your program, two organizations often mentioned in this space are Pet Partners and the Association of Animal Assisted Intervention Professionals (AAAIP). Both are leaders in the AAI field, but they serve different purposes and audiences.

This guide explores what each organization offers, how they compare, and how you can use their resources to enhance your AAI program.

What Is Pet Partners?

Pet Partners is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and registering therapy animal teams. Established in 1977, Pet Partners emphasizes using the human-animal bond to improve health and well-being. The organization focuses on creating opportunities for volunteers and their pets to visit hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and more.

Key Offerings:

• Therapy Animal Registration: Pet Partners provides rigorous evaluation and registration for therapy animals and their handlers.

• Education: Courses for handlers cover animal behavior, safety, and interaction techniques.

• Volunteer Network: Pet Partners connects teams with facilities looking for therapy animal visits.

• Programs and Initiatives: These include specialized efforts like Read With Me™ for literacy and Walk With Me™ for physical health.

What Is AAAIP?

The Association of Animal Assisted Intervention Professionals (AAAIP) is a membership-based organization for professionals integrating AAI into their work. AAAIP focuses on research-backed practices, ethical standards, and professional development for those in therapy, education, and healthcare roles.

Key Offerings:

• Professional Certification: AAAIP offers training and certification for professionals using AAI in structured therapeutic or educational contexts.

• Ethical Guidelines: Resources for ensuring animal welfare and maintaining client safety.

• Research and Advocacy: A hub for studies and policy work to advance the field.

• Networking and Resources: Opportunities to connect with peers and access tools for program success.

How Are They Similar?

Both organizations are dedicated to improving lives through animal-assisted interventions and share the following core values:

1. Commitment to Animal Welfare: Both prioritize the health and well-being of the animals involved.

2. Education and Training: Each organization provides comprehensive training to ensure safe and effective interventions.

3. Supportive Community: Both offer opportunities for members and volunteers to connect, share insights, and grow their impact.

Key Differences

AspectPet partnership target AudienceVolunteers and therapy animal handlersProfessionals integrating AAI into their practice Focus AreaTherapy animal visits in community settings professional AAI in structured, goal-oriented contexts Animal RolesTherapy animals only animals in therapeutic, educational, and research roles Certification For handler-animal teamsFor professionals incorporating AAI Scope Primarily hands-on, volunteer-driven initiativesResearch, advocacy, and professional development

Which Organization Is Right for You?

Choosing between Pet Partners and AAAIP depends on your goals:

• If you’re a volunteer looking to register your pet as a therapy animal and participate in visits to schools, hospitals, and other facilities, Pet Partners is the ideal choice.

• If you’re a professional seeking to incorporate AAI into your practice, develop structured programs, or earn certifications, AAAIP is the better fit.

Using Both Organizations to Your Advantage

For professionals, combining resources from both organizations can be highly effective:

1. Train and Register a Therapy Animal with Pet Partners: This provides a solid foundation in working with your animal in various environments.

2. Join AAAIP for Professional Development: Use their tools to design, implement, and evaluate AAI programs aligned with your practice’s goals.

3. Leverage Research and Networks: AAAIP’s focus on evidence-based practices complements the hands-on experience Pet Partners offers.

Building Your AAI Program

Whether you choose Pet Partners, AAAIP, or both, the key is creating a program that:

• Prioritizes animal welfare and client safety.

• Aligns with your professional goals.

• Incorporates ongoing education and evaluation.

Get Started Today with a therapy dog!

• Visit Pet Partners to explore therapy animal registration and community programs.

• Join AAAIP for professional certifications, resources, and networking opportunities.

By aligning with these leading organizations, you can bring the transformative power of the human-animal bond to your program while ensuring ethical, effective, and lasting results.