FAQ's
Buddys Pals provides learning and comfort support for children. We are a pet assisted learning program that works with children in schools, libraries, school events, any event that helps in the education of children.
Do you go into nursing homes?
As a pet assisted learning program, we work with children in schools, libraries, school events, any event that helps in the education of children.
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Science fairs
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Art fairs
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End of year exams for student support
We do not go to:
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Hospitals
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Nursing homes
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Assisted living homes
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Doctor's office​​
What if a handler can't go into a school due to their work schedule?
Not a problem. We have library time helping children read. Other events we provide support at include:
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Science fairs
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Kids study time
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Pre-test time
Who is Buddy?
Buddy is a male boxer who was just a puppy when he first demonstrated an aptitude for comforting others. He’s the organization’s namesake and has worked as an educational comfort dog in classrooms since 2018.
Is PALS an acronym?
Yes, PALS stands for Pet Assisted Learning.
What do the dogs do?
Buddy’s PALS dogs and their handlers volunteer to visit students at K-12 schools, universities, and libraries throughout Michigan to help with education, comfort, trauma, and crises. The dogs help students by being a friendly ear for classwork, a natural anxiety remedy before a big test, or a gentle companion in times of distress.
How do I get a Buddy's PALS dog and handler team to visit my school?
Just ask! Here’s the Team Request Form. Send the form and any questions to info@buddys-pals.org.
What does the program cost for schools and libraries?
Nothing. The all-volunteer program is available to educational institutions for free. The nonprofit is made possible by charitable funds, volunteer hours, and donations of supplies.
What are the requirements for dogs to become Buddy's PALS?
A Buddy’s PALS dog can be any breed! The dog should be at least one year old, even-tempered, good-natured, and enjoy being around kids. The dogs should have basic obedience skills such as being able to sit or lay down politely, walk nicely on a leash, and listen to commands such as “come” and “stay.” The dog and handler must pass a Buddy’s PALS performance evaluation.
Can my dog be trained to be an educational comfort dog?
Dog training and test preparation classes for Buddy’s PALS are available through Annabelle’s Canine Station and Click! Pawsitive. The lessons build on a dog’s basic obedience skills, including navigating an educational environment.
Who can be a handler?
Parents, teachers, retirees, or anyone with a good heart and a well-trained dog can volunteer their time. Buddy’s PALS runs a background check of each volunteer who will be on a school site.
How are the dog and handler tested?
Buddy’s PALS tests all dogs and handlers as a team during a scheduled Temperament Assessment. Handlers are evaluated on their ability to control the dogs, while dogs are tested for obedience skills, willingness to be touched, temperament, and grooming. Handlers should come prepared with photo identification, a six-foot leash, and the dog’s up-to-date vaccination records.
How can I donate to Buddy's PALS?
You can donate on our website here and at events held to benefit Buddy’s PALS. If you’re interested in corporate sponsorship or in donating supplies, please contact us here or by email, info@buddys-pals.com. Thank you! We couldn’t do this without your help.
Is Buddy's PALS a nonprofit?
Yes, Buddy’s PALS is a 501(c)(3) organization. Our EIN is 88-3824936.
What's your address?
Our mailing address is:
Buddy’s PALS
PO Box 70
DeWitt, MI 48820