Therapy Dog Program
Do you want to bring comfort and joy to others with your dog? Does your dog love other people? Therapy work just might be right for you and your dog! Therapy dogs are dogs who go with their handlers to volunteer in schools, nursing homes, hospitals, and even libraries. These dogs are also facility therapy dogs for court houses, funeral homes, and police departments. From working with a child who is learning to read to visiting a senior in assisted living, these special teams work together to improve the lives of others. ​
​
Please be aware therapy dogs are not service dogs.
1
In-home basic obedience
The first step in becoming a therapy dog is to complete in-home basic obedience. This is a 6 week program. Your dog will learn basic commands and manners in order to become a well-mannered pet. Cost is $500 for 6 weeks of training. This price doesn't include travel fees or training equipment.
2
AKC Canine Good Citizen
The second step is to complete AKC's Canine Good Citizen course. This is a 10 step test that furthers your dog's basic obedience and manners. Cost is $200 for a 6 week class.
3
AKC CGCA
Step three is to complete AKC's Community Canine course. This is a 10 step test that tests your dog's obedience and nerves in a public setting. Cost is $200 for a 6 week class.
4
AKC CGCU
Step four is to complete AKC's Urban Canine course. This course will test your dog's obedience and nerves on the streets in town and other public settings. Cost is $200 for a 6 week class.
5
Therapy Dog Test
After you have completed all the above, you are ready to study for the therapy dog test! There is a handler test, a dog test, and 3-4 facility observations must be completed before certification. Cost is $350 to complete training for the program. At graduation your dog will receive their therapy dog vest.
​
Important: Dogs must be at least 1 year old to be assessed and observed, and the handler must have had a close relationship with the dog for at least 6 months before testing.
Trained Therapy Dogs
​
Are you looking for a trained therapy dog? Please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
