Are we a good fit for therapy?

[Devin and Indy]

I've really been wanting to get Indy trained to be a therapy dog, but I'm nervous that maybe his personality isn't the best fit.

Pros:

• He loves kids
• He's very friendly
• Great with other dogs
• Seems to sense when I'm hurting and is gentle around me
• Very trainable
• Loves to cuddle/receive affection

Cons:

• He gets quite excited when meeting new people
• Still jumps up occasionally
• He used to react fearfully to crutches (until I was on them for about 6 months) so I'm not sure how the other medical equipment will go

I'm mostly just worried because he gets SO excited to see people. We've been sitting at coffeeshops a lot and practicing greeting people calmly. There is definitely significant improvement, but is it just insurmountable to think he'll be good as a therapy dog?

(thanks for reading! here's a picture for your troubles)

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

It sounds like immaturity is your main problem. (not sure how old he is).  With lots of practice you can get this under control.  I would take some obedience classes as well as lots of socialization time at events with lots of people.  Many obedience classes will incorporate the hospital equipment into the class if they know that you are wanting to do therapy work.  If not, just find some at yard sales or something and practice with it yourself.

[Malenie Piscetelli]

He is so adorable. Try it to see if he can do it.

[Cathy, Fozzie & Shaggy]

Don't count him out yet!  Shaggy is 2 years old and is still way to excitable to do therapy work.  He loves people and gets so excited he will still tinkle on their shoes.  Keep doing what you are doing and as Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom said, continue to take training classes.  Shaggy may not make it until he's....10 or 15 yrs old! :)