Not sure where to start?

[Kendra K. Rhoton]

Hello All,

Remington recently turned one year old and I would really like to get him involved in Therapy work... however, I'm just not sure where to start?  He knows basic commands but I know the requirements to pass the test are more involved.  Do you all suggest entering a class that works specifically toward receiving your CGC?  I dunno?  I would like to get him involved in therapy work in nursing home facilities etc. since that is what my education is based around (gerontology) Any and all comments are welcomed!

Thanks!

[Adina P]

What I would do first is figure out which major therapy organization is active near you. If you look on the front page of this group I list 3 of the big ones. Check out their sites and see if there are local chapters near you. If any of them offer classes/workshops...attend those and that will usually help you get ready or pinpoint any problem areas to work on.

[Winnie's Dad]

Where are you located? Do you know if any of the larger therapy dog groups (Delta Society, TDI, TD Inc.) are active in your area? If so, contact them, they may have classes or suggestions. In the absence of a therapy dog class, a CGC class is a step in the right direction.

Also, you can get Kathy Diamond Davis' book: "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others" at Amazon or Dogwise.com. It is helpful for DIY training.

[Kendra K. Rhoton]

Located Greenwood, IN

[Eva]

Hi Kendra,
My experience in getting my 2 dogs certified for therapy work was done locally. We had gone to classes at the local Pet Smart and took off from there. Usually after an intermediate class, they usually are ready to pass the CGC. The instructor from PetSmart usually has names of testers in the area. Depending on what your dog already knows, depends on where you start. If he knows his basic commands, can walk on a leash, sit, stay, down, come when called, he should be ready for the intermediate class. That will polish him and teach him all of the above with distractions to help him pass the CGC. Our testers here in Vegas had the option for the combination of CGC and Therapy. When you pass the therapy portion I went online to Therapy Dogs Incorporated located in Wyoming. They have a great website and checklist of everything you need to do. You will have 3 supervised visits at a medical facility, and the tester will give you pointers on what to do and look for, and help guide you. Before you test though, you have to show proof of rabies and a negative stool sample. Again, there is downloadable paperwork to walk you through it. They even have a list of different testers sorted by area codes to choose from.
A friend of mine also trained her dog solo. She read books and socialized her dog well and they passed the first time. I personally think the classes in a store are great because the dogs get to interact with others and are "tested" with many, many distractions. Kids, carts, chairs, people, the scents are all temptations.
I say go for it, and your dog will love learning. It's a great feeling and sense of accomplishment. Best of luck, Eva, Malibu & Willow

[Ann Davis-Schultz]

Hi, I have a 10 month old Labradoodle. I have her in CGC right now- she already passed Star Puppy. When she turns one I will have her take that test. I am going through clearance to volunteer at the VA Hospital since it is quire a long process. Your dog is darling!

[Kendra K. Rhoton]

But how do you find a therapy group in your area... I have tried to look at the links offered in the front of this group... but I'm not sure what I'm looking for?!?!

[Joe R.]

You could also check with you local Humane Society. Our local county humane society has a program that we got involved with.

[Susan, Zeke. Lily & Jasper]

Hi Kendra, The way we found out about our local group was when we tested for TDI. The facility hosting the test had information about local opportunities and also the orginazation you test with will often supply you with a list of facilities already accepting therapy dog visits. Also, after you pass your test you can contact anywhere you are personally interested in visiting and apply for entrance there Hope this helps you get on your way to sharing that wonderful doodle love!