Therapy dogs, and their people are a wonderful lot. They serve the public in many important ways.
Visiting hospitals, and long term care centers, they share the comfort and affection that only animals can provide.
Dogs are also actively participating in human physical therapy, where petting and throwing toys can be part of a patients rehabilitation therapy, while making the experience a little more fun for all.
Schools and libraries often have reading programs where the dogs lend a patient ear to reassure children just learning to read.
Therapy dogs also play a large, important part at disasters and other emotionally devastating events such as 9/11 where they served the rescuers, workers and volunteers the much needed emotional support and stress relief that only dogs can provide.
Not all dogs, have what it takes to be a therapy dog.
In addition to the socialization and training to be reliable and comfortable in hospitals, and other novel (to dogs) places, smells and sounds, they must not only tolerate, but seek out and ENJOY attention from all ages of people they do not know. If they only tolerate various types of attention, and don't actually enjoy it, therapy can be a very stressful experience to a dog.
If you think therapy would be part of a very rewarding experience for you and your dog, please contact us to find out about available classes and public outings. Lets not forget, all sizes and breeds are allowed! There are also many species of animals participating in Therapy activities including cats, birds, small animals, horses, alpacas... and so-on. Get involved and make a difference!
If you are interested in participating in therapeutic activities with your dog, we recommend contacting a local therapy group, such as Sunshine Friends.
Find out more about their group and activities at
I also recommend training for and taking a Canine Good Citizen and a Therapy Dogs International test (Both tests can sometimes be taken together). Find out what is required from checking these sites...
Therapy class outing at Home Depot
