Embarking on the journey to become a therapy dog is a rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to positively impact the lives of others. Therapy dogs, along with their dedicated handlers, volunteer their time in various settings, providing comfort and support in places like hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. While not afforded the same public access rights as service dogs, therapy dogs play a crucial role in animal-assisted therapy, bringing joy and a sense of well-being to those in need. This guide outlines the essential steps and considerations for preparing your dog for this fulfilling role, emphasizing the importance of foundational training and understanding the requirements of therapy dog organizations.
Foundational Training: The Canine Good Citizen Test
A cornerstone of preparing any dog for therapy work is ensuring they possess basic obedience and good manners. The American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test is an excellent starting point for all aspiring therapy dogs. This program introduces dogs to fundamental commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down,” while also teaching them to respond appropriately in the presence of other dogs. Passing the CGC test not only equips your dog with essential skills but also serves as a prerequisite for many therapy dog organizations before they can undertake their own specific therapy evaluations. Learning about CGC and its ten test items is a vital first step for any owner considering therapy dog work.
Navigating Therapy Dog Organizations
To become a registered therapy dog, you will need to align with a recognized therapy dog organization. These groups are invaluable resources, connecting you with experienced handlers who can share their knowledge and insights from volunteering in therapy settings. Furthermore, therapy organizations typically provide their members with essential liability insurance, ensuring protection during your volunteer activities. Exploring a list of therapy dog organizations and their specific requirements is a crucial part of the preparation process.
Doing Your Research
Before committing to an organization, thorough research is key. Consider these approaches:
- Contact Local Facilities: If you have a specific facility, such as a school or hospital, in mind where you’d like to volunteer, reach out to their volunteer coordinator. Inquire about existing therapy dog programs and discover which organizations they partner with. This can streamline your registration process by identifying a preferred organization early on. You may also have the opportunity to visit and observe therapy dogs in action before officially registering your own dog.
- Connect with an AKC Club: If you’re unsure about specific facilities, your local AKC club can be a great starting point. Club members often engage in therapy dog work and can direct you to local groups and activities. Local dog trainers are also generally well-informed about the therapy dog community. Finding an AKC club near you can open doors to valuable connections and information.
Registration and Title Opportunities
Once you have 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 the organization’s website.
After successfully completing your first ten therapy visits, you can apply for the AKC’s Novice Therapy Dog (THDN) title. This recognition celebrates your dog’s achievement and your commitment to providing therapy services.
For further information or inquiries, you can 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 volunteer with their handlers to provide comfort and support in various public settings. However, they do not have the same access privileges as service dogs and cannot accompany their handlers into places like airplanes or restaurants 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 spaces.
While the journey to becoming a therapy dog involves dedicated training and organizational alignment, the profound impact you and your canine partner can have on improving the lives of others makes it an incredibly worthwhile endeavor.
