Serving Cape Cod since 1986

Companion Animal Program: Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Companion Animal Program, Inc.? (CAP)

Cap is an all-volunteer organization of pet owners who visit, with their pets, nursing facilities and special needs schools on Cape Cod from the Canal to Provincetown. CAP is non-profit, self-sustaining, with no paid employees.

When was CAP founded?

CAP was started, in Orleans, by a small group of volunteer pet owners in 1986. Cap currently has 147 dues-paying members with 70 or more active Pet Partners who have committed to making 110 visits every month. (Except June, July, Aug.& Sept)

What kinds of facilities and schools does CAP visit?

CAP currently visits 18 different facilities including nursing homes like Eagle Pond, Cape Regency, Brewster Epoch Center, and Orleans Convalescent Home, to name a few. Also, CAP visits special needs schools like the Latham School. Among those visited are the elderly, the terminally ill, the convalescing, people who have suffered brain injuries, autistic children, people with Alzheimer's, and other handicapped that require special care. We are often asked to do 'reading to dogs' programs at local libraries and schedule these visits when invited.

Why are CAP visitations welcomed by so many institutions?

People confined to nursing homes and special schools are hungry for visits of any kind. They tell us that our pet visits break up their day in a most unusual way. Most people love animals. Remember, many of those we visit have had to give up their own pets. Our pet visits cheer them. They often get to know the pets by name and look forward to their visits each month. Many people respond to animals when they won't or cannot respond to other people.

How often are the visits conducted?

The visits are usually scheduled monthly. Teams visit for about an hour. Some Pet Partners visit one site, others as many as four sites a month. The visits are sometimes conducted in the Activity Room of the facility, or one on one in the client's rooms. Since there are a wide variety of locations, Pet Partners (the member and their animal) may choose a convenient site.

What characteristics are most desirable in a pet?

Currently in the program there are mostly dogs of many breeds, mixtures and sizes, several cats and two guinea pigs. Well behaved social pets who enjoy petting, snuggling or maybe have a trick or two are wonderful visitors. Clients love a cat that purrs contently as it is stroked, or a small dog that will sit in their lap. The larger dog who puts its head in their lap, wags its tail hoping for a pat on the head or maybe a treat, are great visitors.

What would I have to do to qualify as a Pet Partner?

First, all persons representing CAP in any activity, or participating in CAP activity, must be a member of CAP, and pay Membership dues. Dues are $30.00 per year for an individual member and go mostly to insurance coverage for the participants. All animals must be a member of a Pet Partner team, and properly tested. All dogs must pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test (no charge for members). Most dogs that have had obedience training can pass this test. A modified version of the CGC is given to all other species. All species successfully passing the CGC, and wanting to participate in the visitation program, must then undergo an aptitude test called the Pet Partner Aptitude Test (PPAT).

Why all these tests?

The safety of our clients is foremost. The testing measures the team's response to the unexpected - a hug, a pulled ear or tail, unconventional petting, items of medical equipment, and reaction to medical environments. This also measures the safety, reliability and controllability of the animal. Visiting clients with an animal is a serious responsibility. It is our intent to ensure our volunteer visiting teams are well suited for visitations and are comfortable in a medical environment. For Testing (Evaluations) --- Call (508)240-2051 or (508)888-9267.

What if my dog hasn't had obedience training?

CAP can help prepare you and your dog to become a visiting team. CAP offers basic daytime obedience training class to members. It's fun and rewarding. The emphasis is on positive reinforcement, not punishment. Progress is dramatic. People who have been through the course enjoy the benefits of having a pet that is well behaved at home and in the village, as well as during the visits. The class fee ($85.00 for Members) covers an 8-week course of instruction and testing. The classes are held every spring and fall. To receive information and scheduling call (508)240-2051.

Is CAP able to fill the demand for visitations?

Unfortunately, CAP never has enough Pet Partner teams to fill the demand. As more people become aware of our program, more and more sites want our participation. The request by facilities for CAP visits still far exceeds our ability to accommodate them.

What if I don't have a pet?

If you have no pet but would like to join CAP and assist us, please call.

Does CAP have any social events ?

There's the annual CAP picnic, Chatham 4th of July parade, Fun Day and the Holiday Open House. CAP is a congenial group of Cape Cod residents who are animal lovers and want to share their joy.

How can I buy a teeshirt?

Teeshirts and sweatshirts are available for sale to Pet Partners, members, and anyone else interested in supporting and promoting the Companion Animal Program. For information about merchandise please email Donna Cansdale

Does C.A.P. sell any other merchandise?

Yes we do! Dress you vehicle up a bit with a CAP License Plate Holder. Frames are black with white lettering and can be had for a $5.00 donation. Top line CAPE COD. Bottom line COMPANION ANIMAL PROGRAM. They may be picked up at Donna Cansdale's Farm House Antiques in Wellfleet or email Donna at farmhouseantiquesetc@comcast.net. Sorry, not suitable for mailing.

Can you direct me to other pet therapy groups?

We have a page of links to pet therapy groups and related information on assistance pets, pet adoption, etc. in New England and nationally. Have a look at our links page.

Can you do a presentation for our club?

Yes, we will provide a speaker, a video presentation and therapy animals to educate your group about our activities. Email Jan Weiner at jlw1012@yahoo.com or contact her by phone at 508/888-9267.