What is a Therapy Dog?
Dogs are a fantastic source of comfort for humans. Some extra-talented dogs may be given the privilege of being therapy dogs! Now, you may be asking, “What is a therapy dog?”
To answer your question, a therapy dog is a dog with special training to support people who are having a difficult time. These dogs tend to be very calm while working, and can always bring a smile to your face!
Does your dog have what it takes to be a therapy dog? Let’s find out!
Therapy dogs in the USA
What Are the Qualities of a Good Therapy Dog
Not every dog is fit to be a therapy dog. There are a few qualities that the dog needs to have before you start training. If your dog has these qualities, they will likely become a very effective therapy dog in the future!
- A calm dog.
- Your dog should always be calm when on the job. This means that they are not running around, and can remain calm when a person is anxious.
- Your dog should always be calm when on the job. This means that they are not running around, and can remain calm when a person is anxious.
- A non-intrusive dog.
- Your dog should not jump around or on people. It shouldn’t lick people unless invited to do so.
- Your dog should not jump around or on people. It shouldn’t lick people unless invited to do so.
- An obedient dog.
- The dog should listen to the handler’s or owner’s commands.
- The dog should listen to the handler’s or owner’s commands.
- A focused dog.
- Your dog should not be distracted by food, noises, or movement in the room.
- Your dog should not be distracted by food, noises, or movement in the room.
- A non-possessive dog.
- Your dog should not guard resources such as toys or people. In other words, you should always be able to take items away from your dog.
Finding the Right Training Resources
It is finally time to train your therapy dog. To do this, you need to find quality training resources. This includes people, companies, books, and online resources that can guide you along the way.
If you choose to find a business to help you, make sure to find places that are reputable in the community, and have a training plan that fits your dog’s needs. However, some people might prefer online resources if they have enough training experience. To get you started, here are a few great ones:
Service Dog Training International Course
“With the guidance of step-by-step lessons, you will learn to train your dog to be friendly, patient, confident, gentle, and at ease in all situations for visiting hospitals, libraries, nursing homes, schools and assisted living facilities.”
E-Training for Dogs Therapy Dog Course
“Learn the skills necessary to train therapy dogs or working therapy dog teams to work in the area of visitation and/or assisted activities.
Learn how to train to pass a Therapy Dog Certification Course.”
Getting Your Pup Certified
Many people think certification would be run by a government organization. However, this is usually not true. Therapy dog certification programs are run by trusted organizations. Some include Service Dog Certifications or Therapeutic Paws.
All these organizations have one thing in common – people trust them. Make sure to conduct lots of research to see which organizations are recommended in your community.
Wrapping it Up
You did it! By taking your dog through lots of training and certification, you have learned how to make an exceptional therapy dog! From everyone at Topic Forever, we wish you and your dog an incredible therapy journey. Good luck!
