TRAINING & PREPARATION AS A THERAPY DOG
 Frequently Asked Questions regarding Training & Preparation as a Therapy Dog Team
Who are the Therapy Dogs?
Dogs can have many jobs. First and foremost they are our beloved companions. They may be from a shelter, rescue or breeder. They may be show dogs or our couch potatoes. But they can also bring joy to someone else's life through therapy work.
Pictured: GCHS CH Hi-Tech Champagne Cristal Rose CGC THDN aka Bubbles -->
What is a Certified Therapy Dog Team?
Therapy Dog Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit therapy dog organization whose members are trained to visit nursing homes, hospitals, libraries and schools, providing love and cheer to those in need. A dog must receive a Canine Good Citizen certification prior to being able to receive a Therapy Dog Certification.
How old does my dog have to be?
A dog may come to us at any age after their first series of vaccines and veterinarian exam.
Should the dog be trained first?
It is easier for the owner but the sooner you begin the training the better.
Is my dog too old?
If you dog is healthy, not in pain, there is no reason to exclude the dog from the Therapy Dog Foundation. However, one must keep constant vigilance to be sure that the dog has no impediment that would cause harm to itself or others. Just as SENIORS continue to work so should dogs if they are happy and healthy doing so.
Do I have to commit ... going to class every week?
No, but you will graduate a lot faster. This process should be comfortable and fun. Classes are geared to accommodate the attendees on that night. Just like the little one room school house.
When is graduation?
When you and your dog are trained and RELIABLE, ten supervised visits are arranged and congratulations are in order. This process is not fast but it is enriching, exciting and complete.
Upon completion of graduating as a Certified Therapy Dog Team, Therapy Dog Foundation offers additional educational opportunities such as continuing higher levels of CGC training for certification.
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INDIVIDUALIZED TRAINING
Training is individualized to the dog and handler and is ongoing. Classes are ongoing and continuous. There is no need to wait for another class to start. We train in various locations in South Palm Beach County. Pricing of training depends on the current status of your dog, so please contact us for an evaluation and to receive a quote. If your dog is registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC), upon certification from Therapy Dog Foundation, your dog may qualify for an AKC title. Therapy Dog Foundation is an approved organization by the AKC and has approved evaluators for final certifications.
For more information call (561) 350-0889.
Therapy Dog Foundation also coordinates with local City staff to allow students to learn the Red Cross Canine C.P.R. techniques.
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