Getting Started

If you think your dog has what it takes to be a therapy dog, there are a few things you need to do to get started. Begin by evaluating your dog's personality. Is he generally well-mannered? Is he outgoing and friendly? Is his temperament stable and predictable? Can you say these things about your dog with confidence?

1. My dog is friendly to strangers.
2. My dog can sit politely while being petted.
3. My dog is groomed and healthy looking.
4. My dog can walk nicely on a leash. When I turn left, right,
and around, he doesn't pull. He stops when I stop.
5. My dog can behave and walk nicely through a crowded area.
6. My dog will sit and lay down when I tell him to. He will stay when I tell him to.
7. My dog will come when I call him.
8. My dog behaves nicely around other dogs.
9. My dog is comfortable around distractions and noises.
10. My dog can be away from me without getting upset and nervous.
11. My dog can take treats gently from a person's hand.
12. My dog is comfortable around people using wheelchairs and walkers.

If you can't say yes to all of the statements above, you will need to work on your dog's behavior. A beginning obedience class will help you with all of these things. You may need more than one class to get your dog to a level where you feel confident about his behavior.

While you are training your dog, be sure to give him lots of socialization. It's very important that your dog be stable and comfortable with many different sights, sounds, people, and places. Visit our socialization page for a check-off list.

If the sentences above describe your dog perfectly, then you can contact one of the three national organizations for therapy dogs. They will tell you their procedure for registering your dog. Some of these organizations use the AKC Canine Good Citizen or CGC test, and some do not. Registering with one of these organizations is desirable because they will give your dog liability insurance. Most health institutions feel more comfortable with you and your dog if you come with your own insurance policy.

After you receive your registration paperwork, it's time to find a facility. You might want to check for local therapy dog groups in your city, which can be found by calling dog clubs. You can also contact facilities on your own. For nursing homes, day cares, etc., ask to meet with the activities director. For hospitals and the like, contact Volunteer Services. Ask if they have a therapy dog program already. Many do. If not, you will have the opportunity to educate them about what a visiting pet can do for them. Be prepared. Do your research before your meeting. Bring your insurance policy with you. Don't bring your dog on the first meeting unless you have cleared it with the person with whom you are meeting.

Remember always to be professional and well-groomed - you and your dog. Think of your meeting as a job interview and be open to their questions and suggestions. If you do these steps carefully and thoughtfully you will be on your way to a great start with your new therapy dog.