Pediatric Therapy Dog Handler – Child Life

Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 43,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cleveland Clinic Main Campus seeks a Facility Dog Handler to support patients, families and caregivers through Animal‑Assisted Therapy with the facility dog. Responsibilities include documenting interactions, participating in team meetings, planning events, supervising volunteers, and collaborating with clinical staff on research and care.

The role runs 8:00 AM–4:30 PM; this role offers growth in behavioral health, animal handling and direct patient engagement within a world‑class health

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Life, Recreational Therapy, or related field.
• CTRS certification OR active CCLS certification.
• BLS certification within 90 days of hire.
• Training certification from Facility Dog Training Placement Organization.
• Comfort working with children and animals.

Responsibilities

• Provide animal-assisted therapy using the facility dog across clinical settings.
• Document interactions and program activities in medical records as needed.
• Collaborate with clinical staff to support research involving the facility dog.
• Supervise volunteers, students and interns; participate in supervision sessions.
• Plan and execute events and programming involving the facility dog.

Skills

Bachelor's Degree

CTRS Certification

BLS Certification

Facility Dog Training Certification

Children & animals comfort

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Child Life, Recreational Therapy, Child Development or related field

Job description

The Cleveland Clinic Main Campus seeks a Facility Dog Handler to support patients, families and caregivers through Animal‑Assisted Therapy with the facility dog. Responsibilities include documenting interactions, participating in team meetings, planning events, supervising volunteers, and collaborating with clinical staff on research and care.

The role runs 8:00 AM–4:30 PM; this role offers growth in behavioral health, animal handling and direct patient engagement within a world‑class health