Therapy Dog Program
Therapy Dog Program
Each year millions are touched by the comfort and healing of therapy dogs. Studies have shown that spending time
with dogs can offer physical and mental health benefits.
A therapy dog is trained to provide affection and comfort
to people in hospitals, independent/assisted living,
nursing homes, schools, in times of tragedy,
and other countless situations.
The most important characteristic of a therapy dog is temperament. A good candidate must be friendly, gentle,
patient, and well-trained.
All dogs must be up to date with their shots and yearly health certificates. Our Therapy Dog Program consists of private and group lessons that can take 12 weeks or more. All dogs get 2-4 private lessons to get them started then, they join a group of peers learning the same commands. Dogs must complete our beginner, intermediate, advanced, and CGC (Canine Good Citizen thru the AKC) test prior to graduation. The dogs who graduate become mentor trainers for the upcoming classes and are able to take our classes over and over again.
What is required for my dog and me to become a Therapy Dog Team?
First, you will need a dog that is “social”. Our definition of "social" is a dog that even after their initial friendly greeting of a person continues to desire more interaction with that person.
Next, you will need to train your dog to respond to you consistently, even in distracting situations. While your dog may sit, stay and come when you call him in your own home, ask yourself if your dog would respond the same way in a distracting environment such as your local pet store or in a busy veterinarian’s office.
The best dog for therapy work is a friendly one and has a strong desire to please. If you have a dog who is jumping wildly at the end of a leash, most people will not feel comfortable petting or interacting with them.
