Volunteering as a therapy dog team can be an incredibly rewarding experience, bringing comfort and joy to those in need. While the idea of bringing your beloved canine companion to help others is heartwarming, it requires dedication, proper training, and understanding the specific requirements of therapy dog organizations. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare your dog and yourself for this noble role.
The journey to becoming a therapy dog team begins with a strong foundation in obedience and good manners. A crucial starting point for many aspiring therapy dogs is the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. This program is designed to evaluate a dog’s basic obedience skills and ensure they can behave appropriately in public settings. Passing the CGC test demonstrates that your dog can reliably perform commands such as sit, stay, come, and down, and that they can react calmly around other dogs. This fundamental training is not only beneficial for therapy work but also for everyday life. To learn more about the CGC test and its ten components, you can explore the CGC program.
Understanding Therapy Dog Organizations
Once your dog has a solid grasp of basic obedience, the next vital step is to thoroughly research and select a therapy dog organization. Each organization has its own set of requirements, testing procedures, and volunteer guidelines. Connecting with experienced therapy dog handlers through a local group is invaluable. These handlers can offer practical advice, share their insights from working in various therapy settings, and guide you through the process. Furthermore, reputable therapy organizations provide members with essential liability insurance, offering peace of mind while you and your dog volunteer.
When selecting an organization, consider reaching out to local facilities like hospitals, schools, or nursing homes that you might be interested in visiting. Contacting their volunteer coordinator can provide direct insight into their specific therapy dog programs and any affiliated organizations they work with. This proactive approach can save you time and help you align with a group that suits your goals. You might also inquire about the possibility of visiting a facility to observe their therapy dog teams in action before formally registering your dog.
If you’re unsure where to start, consider reaching out to a local AKC club. Many club members are actively involved in therapy dog work and can offer valuable connections to local therapy dog groups and activities. Dog trainers in your area are also excellent resources for information on the local therapy dog scene. You can find an AKC club near you to begin exploring these connections.
Registration and Beyond
After you have identified a therapy dog organization that aligns with your aspirations, the next step is to begin the application process. Most organizations provide application forms on their websites. Carefully complete all required sections and ensure you meet any prerequisite criteria, such as completing the CGC test.
We encourage you to embark on this journey of volunteering with your dog. The positive impact you can have on the lives of others through animal-assisted therapy is immense. After successfully completing 10 volunteer visits, you and your dog can even apply for the AKC Novice Therapy Dog title, the THDN, recognizing your initial achievements.
For further information and inquiries, please contact akctherapydog@akc.org.
A Crucial Distinction: Therapy Dogs vs. Service Dogs It is important to understand the difference between therapy dogs and service dogs. Therapy dogs, accompanied by their handlers, volunteer in settings like hospitals, schools, and nursing homes to provide comfort and support. They do not possess the same public access rights as service dogs, meaning they cannot freely enter places like restaurants or airplanes solely based on their therapy status. Service dogs, on the other hand, are specifically trained to assist individuals with disabilities and are legally permitted in public places to perform tasks for their handlers.
