Therapy dogs play a vital role in bringing comfort and joy to others in various settings, from hospitals and nursing homes to schools. Becoming a registered therapy dog requires dedication, training, and a commitment to making a positive impact. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and considerations for embarking on this rewarding journey with your canine companion.
To begin, understanding the fundamental requirements is crucial. Most therapy dog organizations, including those recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), emphasize the importance of basic obedience and good manners. A solid foundation in obedience training ensures your dog is controllable and responsive in different environments. This not only makes the volunteering experience smoother but also prioritizes the safety and comfort of those you are visiting. Many therapy groups specifically require dogs to pass the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test before they can participate in their own therapy evaluations. The CGC program is an excellent starting point for any aspiring therapy dog, as it covers essential commands like “come,” “sit,” “stay,” and “down,” and teaches dogs how to interact appropriately with other canines. Learn about CGC and the 10 items on the test.
Choosing the Right Therapy Dog Organization
Selecting the appropriate therapy dog organization is a significant step. When you join a local group, you gain access to a network of experienced handlers who can share invaluable insights and practical advice for volunteering in therapy settings. Furthermore, these organizations typically provide members with the necessary liability insurance, offering peace of mind while you and your dog serve others.
Beyond exploring the AKC’s resources, consider these proactive approaches:
- Contacting Local Facilities: If you have a specific facility in mind, such as a school or hospital, reach out to their volunteer coordinator. Inquire about their therapy dog program and whether they have specific registration requirements or affiliations. Understanding this early can save you time and effort. You might also be able to arrange a visit to observe their therapy dogs in action before your own dog is officially registered with a group. This initial visit should be without your dog.
- Connecting with an AKC Club: If you’re unsure about specific facilities, your local AKC club can be a valuable resource. Members of these clubs are often involved in therapy dog work and can provide information about local groups and activities. Dog trainers in your area are also usually well-informed about local therapy dog organizations. Find an AKC club near you.
Registration and Application Process
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 that you and your dog find immense joy in volunteering in animal-assisted therapy settings, making a positive difference in the lives of others. After completing your first 10 visits, you can apply for the AKC Novice Therapy Dog title, the THDN.
For further inquiries or more detailed information, please feel free to 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 time to assist individuals in settings like schools and nursing homes. However, therapy dogs do not possess the same public access rights as service dogs. This means they cannot freely enter places like airplanes or restaurants solely based on their therapy dog status.
Service dogs, on the other hand, are trained to perform specific tasks to aid individuals with disabilities. Due to their specialized roles, service dogs are permitted in public places to support their handlers.
