Is Your Facility Interested in Using Therapy Dogs?

WHAT BENEFITS DO THERAPY DOGS PROVIDE?

Interaction with a Therapy Dog can lower blood pressure, slow heart rate, and reduce stress.  Studies show that stroking a dog may reduce pain.  The presence of a dog also adds interest, and can make patients more cooperative, calmer, more social, and generally improve the quality of life.

WHAT BREED OF DOG MAKES THE BEST THERAPY DOG?

Any breed or combination of breeds can make a good Therapy Dog, but only a few dogs of any breed "have what it takes".

WHY CAN'T WE USE OUR PERSONAL PETS AS THERAPY DOGS?

Unfortunately, most pets aren't suited for Therapy work.  Doing Therapy work is very stressful for an untrained dog, and a frightened or stressed dog may bite.  An untrained dog may jump up or paw at people, causing injury.  Many pet owners are lax in keeping up vaccinations and may not be careful about preventing fleas.  Training and handling skills may be nonexistent.  When you let an uncertified dog visit people other than its owner in your facility, you are taking a huge risk.  A Therapy Dog is a specially trained professional.  They are carefully screened as to suitability, temperament, health, and training.  They are also insured in case of accidental injury to a patient or staff.  (In almost 20 years, there has never been a recorded biting incident involving a TDI dog)

HOW DO I KNOW IF THE DOGS THAT ARE VISITING ARE REGISTERED?

Any dog allowed to visit should be registered with one of the national organizations (like Therapy Dogs International).  They should have I.D. tags identifying them as members.  These organizations insist that each dog pass a yearly health screening by a Vet, who checks for parasites, illness, and temperament.  All vaccinations must be current.  These dogs must also pass a stringent test given by a certified evaluator to prove they know basic obedience, and are totally in control, with no jumping up, barking, or other negative behavior.  They must show no aggressive behavior, even if touched inappropriately.  Owners must bathe dogs before visits and know how to handle their dog in an emergency.

WHAT DOES IT COST TO HAVE A REGISTERED THERAPY DOG VISIT?

Nothing.  Therapy Dog teams are strictly volunteers.  Both Delta and TDI forbid charging for visits.  Although donations to both groups are gratefully accepted, they are NEVER a requirement for visits.

If you are interested in having our dogs visit your facility, please contact:

Terri Lattanzio      

       562-714-4959