Embarking on the journey to become a therapy dog handler is a rewarding experience, offering the chance to bring comfort and joy to others through your canine companion. This path requires dedication, proper training, and an understanding of the roles and requirements involved. Therapy dogs provide invaluable support in various settings, from hospitals and nursing homes to schools and disaster relief areas. To ensure a successful and impactful volunteering experience, handlers must equip themselves and their dogs with the necessary skills and knowledge.
For any aspiring therapy dog team, establishing a foundation in basic obedience is paramount. The American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test serves as an excellent starting point, introducing dogs to fundamental manners such as sit, stay, down, and recall, as well as proper behavior around other dogs. Mastering these skills is crucial for a therapy dog’s control and composure in diverse environments. Understanding the CGC program and its ten test items can provide a clear roadmap for early training.
Before registering with a therapy organization, it is essential to conduct thorough research into different groups and their specific requirements. Each organization may have unique criteria and training philosophies. Engaging with experienced therapy dog handlers within local groups can offer invaluable insights into the practical skills needed for volunteering. These organizations also typically provide members with the necessary liability insurance, ensuring peace of mind while participating in therapy settings.
To effectively select a therapy dog organization, consider these proactive steps:
- Contact Local Facilities: If you have a specific location in mind, such as a school or hospital, reach out to their volunteer coordinator. Inquire about existing therapy dog programs and the specific organizations they partner with. This can streamline your application process by identifying a preferred registering body early on. It may also be possible to arrange a visit to observe their therapy dogs in action before your own dog is registered with a group. During such a visit, you would attend without your dog.
- Connect with an AKC Club: If you are unsure about local facilities, contacting your local AKC club can be beneficial. Club members involved in therapy dog work, or local dog trainers, are often knowledgeable about existing therapy dog groups and activities in your area. This can be a great way to find an AKC club near you.
Once you have identified and chosen a therapy dog organization, the next step is to complete their application process. This typically involves obtaining the application form from their website and fulfilling all stated requirements.
We hope you and your dog find immense fulfillment in volunteering and enriching the lives of others through animal-assisted therapy. After completing a minimum of 10 successful visits, you can then apply for the AKC Novice Therapy Dog title, known as the THDN.
For further information or inquiries, please contact akctherapydog@akc.org.
Important Distinction: Therapy Dogs vs. Service Dogs
It is crucial to understand the difference between therapy dogs and service dogs. Therapy dogs, accompanied by their owners or handlers, volunteer their presence to provide comfort and support in various settings like schools, hospitals, and nursing homes. Therapy dogs do not possess the same public access privileges as service dogs and therefore cannot enter places like airplanes or restaurants solely based on their therapy status. Service dogs, conversely, are specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities, performing tasks that aid their owner’s daily life. Due to their critical role, service dogs are permitted in public places. If you are interested in understanding more about specific training for therapy roles, you might explore resources on training a dog to be an emotional support dog.
The process of becoming a therapy dog handler involves commitment and a clear understanding of the responsibilities involved. By focusing on basic obedience, researching suitable organizations, and ensuring your dog is well-socialized and adaptable, you can successfully contribute to animal-assisted therapy programs. Remember, the goal is to create a positive and impactful experience for both you, your dog, and the individuals you serve. If you’re considering a career in this field or want to learn more about formalizing your expertise, investigating professional dog trainer certification might be a valuable next step.
