I have a 6 month old Black lab named Saghani Takoda. My dream has always been to have a therapy dog. I have started obviously with the basic training in obediance. What I am looking for now is what kind of specific training will she need other than obidiance in order to fill her roll as a therapy dog! There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a smile that a dog brings to a sick child’s or person’s face! Any ideas for a web site to go to or organization would be greatly appreciated!
Ask your obedience instructor about the Canine Good Citizen information and or classes. Also depending on where you live the Delta Society may be able to help you with information on Therapy Dog Tests. I have only gone through The Delta Society Program with a cat (2nd cat in my county who passed) so I am sure the rules are different for dogs. Good luck to you and your doggie, it is a very rewarding opportunity. God Bless.
Thanks for wanting to do such a great thing!
Here ya go:
CGC Testinghttp://www.akc.org/events/cgc/index.cfm
Therapy Dog Testinghttp://www.tdi-dog.org/tditesting.html
Most pet therapy dog must pass the AKC’s Canine Good Citizenship test or the CGC.
It is not really hard just requires a well behaved social dog.
Most dog clubs will give the tests at different times of the year.
If you have a therapy group ask them they will tell you what you need to do.
It is a wonderful way to spend time with your pet and it brings great joy to others. My dog did it for a time and he loved it. It is very rewarding.
AKC CGC TEST® / PLUS ADDED TDI REQUIREMENTShttp://www.tdi-dog.org/tditesting.html
This site has your answers to most questions, and if you contact them, they can tell you where is the closest class for you.
I have a therapy dog, a retired racing greyhound. He adores doing this. It’s a great bond you’ll receive working with your dog on the basic commands.
It’s funny, because when I tell Cody to turn right or left, he knows which way to go. You’ll here people say – that dog knows directions better then I do. You’ll feel so proud of your dog too.
I also tell Cody, it’s time to work when were doing this. Even when we practive.
Like a leader dog (for the blind) they learn when they are working and when their not.