Embarking on the journey to become a therapy dog team is a rewarding experience that allows you and your canine companion to bring comfort and joy to others. While the path requires dedication to training and understanding the specific requirements of therapy organizations, the impact you can make is profound. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, from foundational training to finding the right organization, ensuring you and your dog are well-prepared for this noble role.
The first crucial step in preparing your dog for therapy work is ensuring they have a solid foundation in basic obedience. The American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is an excellent starting point. Passing the CGC not only demonstrates your dog’s good manners but also instills essential commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and “come.” More importantly, it teaches your dog how to behave appropriately around other dogs, a vital skill in many therapy settings. Many therapy dog organizations even require the CGC certification before allowing a dog to participate in their own evaluations. [Learn more about the CGC and its 10 test items to prepare your dog for success.]()
Researching Therapy Dog Organizations
Once your dog has a strong grasp of basic obedience, it’s time to research therapy dog organizations. Connecting with local therapy dog groups is invaluable, as experienced handlers can offer insights and guidance crucial for volunteering effectively. These organizations often provide members with the necessary liability insurance, offering peace of mind during your volunteer work.
Beyond the AKC’s general resources, proactive research can streamline your path to becoming a therapy dog team:
- Contact Local Facilities: If you have a specific hospital, school, or nursing home in mind for volunteering, reach out to their volunteer coordinator. Inquire about their therapy dog program and whether they partner with specific organizations. Knowing this information early can save you time and effort. It’s also advisable to ask if you can visit and observe their therapy dogs in action before formally registering your own dog with a group. These initial visits should be made without your dog.
- Connect with an AKC Club: If you’re unsure about where to volunteer, your local AKC club can be a great resource. Club members often have connections within the local therapy dog community and can point you toward relevant groups and activities. Local dog trainers are also typically well-informed about therapy dog organizations and their operations. [Find an AKC club near you.]()
Registration and Beyond
With a chosen therapy dog organization, the next step is to complete their application process. This typically involves reviewing their requirements on their website and submitting the necessary documentation.
We hope that you and your dog find immense fulfillment in volunteering in animal-assisted therapy settings, making a positive difference in the lives of others. After completing 10 successful visits, you and your dog will be eligible to [apply for the AKC Novice Therapy Dog title, the THDN.]()
For further information, please do not hesitate to contact akctherapydog@akc.org.
Important Distinction: Therapy Dogs vs. Service Dogs
It’s essential to understand the difference between therapy dogs and service dogs. Therapy dogs, accompanied by their owners or handlers, volunteer in settings like schools and nursing homes to provide comfort and support. However, they do not possess the same public access rights as service dogs and therefore cannot accompany their handlers into places like airplanes or restaurants simply because they are therapy dogs. Service dogs, on the other hand, are specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities and are legally permitted in public spaces.
