Requirements For Becoming a Therapy Dog Team   

THE HANDLER:                                     

1.  Must have time to volunteer.                                        

2.  Must get along well with people.

3.  Must be reliable and responsible.

4.  Must be able to "read" their dog.

5.  Must be able to handle their dog in all situations, without loud commands or physical force.

6.  Must be attentive to their dog in all situations.

THE DOG:                                            

1.  Must love and be accepting of all kinds of people.

2.  Must solicit attention from strangers.

3.  Must be very calm and "bombproof" - not reactive.

4.  Must know basic obedience:  sit, down, stay, come, and heel, and perform them reliably, without loud commands or force.

5.  Must know the "leave it" command.

6.  Must be able to do a "paws up" or get up on a chair to reach beds, if the dog is of an appropriate size.

7.  Must tolerate all kinds of inappropriate petting, hugging, and sudden touching.  Must allow people to "get in his/her face".

8.  Must remain calm and obedient around all types of distractions and in all situations, with only a buckle collar.  (no choke chains)

9.  Must not jump up on or paw people.

10.  Must not vocalize except on command.

11.  Must get along well with other dogs and be in control around them.

12.  Must be reasonably healthy, free of pain and well groomed.

13.  Must be at least one year of age.

14.  Must have all shots and a health certificate from a Vet.

15.  Must be free of all parasites, including fleas and worms.

16.  May be any breed or mixed breed.

17.  Must pass a test by a licensed evaluator.

If you believe that you and your dog have what it takes to be a Therapy Dog team, or want more information about the certification process, please contact our TDI evaluator for Southern California:

Terri Lattanzio     562-714-4959

or

Linda Randall   714-573-0260