Therapy dogs offer comfort and joy to countless individuals in various settings, from hospitals and nursing homes to schools and disaster sites. The journey to becoming a certified therapy dog is a rewarding one, built on a foundation of solid training, responsible ownership, and a genuine desire to help others. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for preparing your canine companion for this important role.
The Cornerstone: Basic Training and Canine Good Citizen
A well-behaved dog is paramount for any therapy work. The American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is an excellent starting point for all aspiring therapy dogs. This program emphasizes good manners and basic obedience, covering essential commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and “come.” More importantly, it teaches dogs how to respond appropriately in the presence of other dogs and in various public situations, which is crucial for therapy work. Passing the CGC test demonstrates that your dog has the fundamental control and socialization skills needed for public interaction. You can learn more about the CGC and its 10 test items to prepare your dog effectively.
Finding the Right Support: Therapy Dog Organizations and Resources
Embarking on your therapy dog journey is easier with the guidance of experienced handlers and established organizations. Joining a local therapy dog group is highly recommended. These groups provide invaluable mentorship from seasoned volunteers who can share their practical experience and insights into working in therapy settings. Furthermore, most reputable therapy organizations offer members essential liability insurance, providing peace of mind during your volunteer activities. A comprehensive list of therapy dog organizations and their specific requirements can be found on the AKC’s website.
When considering where to volunteer, proactive research is key. You can directly contact local facilities like hospitals, schools, or nursing homes you are interested in working with. Inquire about their volunteer programs and whether they have a therapy dog initiative. This direct approach can reveal specific registration requirements or preferred therapy dog organizations, potentially saving you time and effort down the line. Some facilities may even allow you to visit and observe their therapy dogs in action before your own dog is registered, offering a valuable preview of the environment.
Alternatively, if you’re unsure about specific facilities, reaching out to your local AKC Club is another effective strategy. Club members often have a strong network within the canine community and can direct you to local therapy dog groups and ongoing activities. Local dog trainers are also a valuable resource, usually well-informed about the therapy dog scene in your area. Finding an AKC club near you can be the first step in connecting with these resources.
Registration and Beyond: Becoming a Certified Therapy Dog
Once you have identified and selected a therapy dog organization that aligns with your goals, the next step is to complete their application process. This typically involves fulfilling specific requirements outlined on their website. After successfully completing your initial visits and meeting all organizational criteria, you can apply for titles such as the AKC Novice Therapy Dog title (THDN) after completing 10 approved visits.
For further information and assistance, you can contact the AKC at akctherapydog@akc.org.
Therapy Dogs vs. Service Dogs: Understanding the Distinction
It is crucial to understand the difference between therapy dogs and service dogs. Therapy dogs, accompanied by their handlers, volunteer their time to provide comfort and support in various community settings. They do not possess the same public access rights as service dogs. This means therapy dogs cannot automatically enter places like restaurants or airplanes simply because they are certified therapy dogs.
Service dogs, on the other hand, are trained to perform specific tasks to assist an individual with a disability. Due to their essential role in supporting their handlers’ daily lives, service dogs are granted broader access to public places.
By focusing on rigorous training, choosing the right organization, and understanding the unique role of therapy dogs, you and your canine companion can embark on a fulfilling journey of giving back to your community.
