What is a Therapy Dog?
A Therapy Dog is any breed or size dog trained and suited for public work. Therapy Dogs need to have the right kind of temperament, smarts, and, in some cases, features (if they are working as a Service Dog). Golden Retrievers are often used in this situation due to their mild temperment and comfort with strangers.
What does a Therapy Dog do?
A therapy dog's main job is to allow a variety of people to make physical contact with it and to enjoy that contact for many different reasons (illness, lonliness, change in routine, disabilities, learning difficulties, anxiety, etc.). The visits take place anywhere from hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, assisted care facilities, schools, businesses, special needs centers, etc. The possibilities are endless.
What does the handler do?
The handler is the "public relations specialists" for the dog and client. It is the handler's job to interpret the needs of the client and adjust the setting for a successful interaction with the dog. It is the handler's priority to maintain a safe enviroment for both the dog and the client.
What is expected from the client/patient/student/visitor?
The client and/or caregiver should inform handler of any known dog allergies (asked before approaching with the dog). To give (or deny) handler permission to approach with Therapy Dog when asked and inform handler of any important factors that may influence the visit. To relax and enjoy.
What if someone is allergic to the Therapy Dog?
If you have allergies and come across an TD in public, you can help yourself by staying away from the dog, taking medication, using an air purifier, etc. Remember that TDs are well-groomed and very clean, usually carrying less dander on themselves than the average pet owner does on their clothes. A handler of a TD will always ask anyone in the room if they are allergic before someone comes in contact with the dog. They will do their best to make sure the dog does not come in close proximity to anyone with allergies. If someone has severe allergies to dogs, then other arrangements can be made for client in need of TD session.
How can I become a therapy dog owner/handler?
