Becoming a therapy dog handler is a rewarding experience, offering a unique way to bring comfort and joy to others through your canine companion. While the journey requires dedication, understanding the key steps and requirements will set you and your dog up for success. This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of training your dog to become a certified therapy animal.
Understanding Therapy Dog Roles and Requirements
Therapy dogs provide invaluable emotional support in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and disaster areas. It’s crucial to understand that therapy dogs are distinct from service dogs. While service dogs are trained to assist individuals with specific disabilities and have broad public access rights, therapy dogs work with their owners as a team to offer comfort and companionship to others in supervised settings. Learn about the difference between therapy and service dogs.
Foundational Training: The Canine Good Citizen Test
A cornerstone of therapy dog training is ensuring your dog possesses excellent manners and is well-controlled. Many therapy dog organizations require dogs to pass the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. This program is an excellent starting point, teaching dogs essential obedience skills such as coming when called, sitting, staying, and responding appropriately around other dogs. Mastering these basics builds a strong foundation for more advanced therapy work.
Choosing the Right Therapy Dog Organization
Selecting a reputable therapy dog organization is a vital step. These organizations not only provide guidance and support but also offer liability insurance for volunteers. Connecting with experienced handlers within a local group can offer invaluable insights into the specific skills and nuances of therapy work in different settings.
Researching Local Opportunities
Before committing to an organization, conduct thorough research:
- Contact Facilities Directly: If you have a specific location in mind (e.g., a hospital or school), contact their volunteer coordinator. Inquire about their therapy dog program and whether they have a preferred registration organization. This can save you time and effort by identifying the requirements upfront. Consider visiting these facilities without your dog to observe their therapy dog teams in action.
- Consult AKC Clubs: If you’re unsure where to start, your local AKC club can be a great resource. Members who are involved in therapy work can offer guidance and connect you with local therapy dog groups and activities. Local dog trainers are also often knowledgeable about these opportunities. Find an AKC club near you.
Registration and Certification
Once you’ve identified a suitable therapy dog organization, you’ll typically need to complete an application and meet their specific requirements. This often includes proof of your dog’s training and temperament. After your dog has completed a certain number of successful visits (often 10), you may be eligible to apply for AKC titles, such as the Novice Therapy Dog (THDN) title. Explore how to certify your dog as a therapy dog.
Advanced Training and Practical Experience
While the CGC test covers basic manners, therapy dog work often involves more specialized skills. Depending on the organization and the settings you plan to visit, additional training might be beneficial. This could include desensitization to medical equipment, strange noises, or different types of surfaces. Learn about training your dog as a therapy dog for more in-depth guidance on advanced techniques.
Handling Specific Behaviors
Understanding how to manage common dog behaviors is crucial. For instance, knowing can you train out dog aggression is important for ensuring your dog remains a safe and positive presence. While aggression is not suitable for therapy work, understanding behavioral modification can be key to addressing any minor behavioral concerns that might arise during training. Discover how to teach a dog deep pressure therapy for an example of specialized skills that can enhance your dog’s therapeutic capabilities.
The Volunteer Experience
The true test of a therapy dog team is in the volunteer setting. Be prepared to observe, learn, and adapt. Your dog’s temperament, your ability to read their cues, and your commitment to ethical volunteering are paramount. Remember, the goal is to enhance the lives of others, and the journey of becoming a therapy dog team is as much about personal growth as it is about your dog’s achievements.
For further information and resources, you can contact akctherapydog@akc.org. We hope you and your dog find immense fulfillment in volunteering and making a positive impact.
