Exploring Volunteer Therapy Dog Handlers’ Intention to Continue Their Service Using the Theory of Planned Behavior

Volunteer therapy dog handlers play a vital role in many types of canine-assisted services, and while previous research suggests that distinct factors may influence the sustained volunteerism of this understudied population, these determinants remain unclear. Therefore, this study of 216 volunteer therapy dog handlers investigated the utility of the theory of planned behavior framework, widely utilized in general volunteerism research yet untested in this context, to predict their intention to continue serving in canine-assisted services. Participants completed quantitative and qualitative assessments in an online survey about continuing their volunteering. The quantitative evaluation of the utility of the framework to explain intention to continue serving was integrated with a qualitative analysis of participants’ beliefs relating to concepts of the theory, providing explanatory depth and context to the findings. Multiple regression analysis provided support for the theory of planned behavior as a valid model for volunteer therapy dog handlers’ behavioral intention to continue volunteering. Attitude emerged as the strongest predictor of intention, whilst subjective norm did not significantly predict intention. Intention was determined by perceived ease of continuing service, rather than perceptions of volitional control. Thematic analysis of participants’ beliefs suggested attitudes were shaped by the fulfillment of cooperating egoistic, collectivistic, and altruistic motivations. Social impact on intention was driven by relationships rather than conformity. Perceptions of behavioral control were influenced by participants’ current circumstances rather than anticipation of future barriers. Therefore, the findings suggest that the theory of planned behavior provided a useful framework for understanding volunteer therapy dog handlers’ intention to continue their service and that volunteer therapy dog handler retention strategies should address a set of cooperating motivational factors and enable practical measures to facilitate continued participation. Recommendations for future research were made addressing dog welfare and further aspects of volunteerism in this context.