A Therapy Dog is a dog who provides comfort and affection to people in need. They may offer their services to hospitals, nursing homes, schools, people with learning difficulties or disabilities, and more.
They often provide therapy by performing small tricks for their audience or by playing carefully structured games. They also play a big role in balancing the energy of people with anxieties and fears by giving of their own calm energy.
Therapy dogs bring joy, comfort, and healing to those who need it most.
The most important characteristic of a therapy dog is its temperament. If your dog is friendly, patient, confident, gentle, and at ease in all situations, they more than likely qualify for Therapy Dog Certification.
A good way to briefly assess if your dog would make a therapy dog is to expose them to overstimulating situations. Keep in mind that a Therapy dog will be around children, wheelchairs, people with disabilities, and lots of strangers. The dog might need to climb onto an individual's lap or bed and sit or lie comfortably there.
Warm and welcoming to strangers
Calm in various situations
Self-assured in new environments
Soft and careful with people
Becoming a certified therapy dog through Therapy Dogs International (TDI®)
To belong to Therapy Dogs International (TDI®), all dogs must be tested and evaluated by a Certified TDI Evaluator. A dog must be a minimum of one (1) year of age and have a sound temperament.
Each dog must pass a TDI temperament evaluation for suitability to become a Therapy Dog, which includes the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen Test (CGC). The test will also include the evaluation of the dog's behavior around people with the use of some type of service equipment (wheelchairs, crutches, etc.).
As a member and evaluator of TDI, there is no fee for testing your dog to become certified. However, there is a charge for the training work done in order for your dog to complete the steps successfully.
Prepare your dog with specialized training for therapy work
Pass the TDI temperament test and CGC evaluation
Receive TDI certification and start making a difference