Holly Graduated from Therapy Prep School

[Richard Crowe]

Holly graduated from Therapy Dog Prep School last night. I wanted to get a picture of Holly in a cap and gown but, she would have none of wearing those silly things. Boomer, her giant Goldendoodle classmate would not wear the cap either however, Izzy, Holly's Golden Retriever classmate looked elegant in his cap and gown.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Awesome! Congratulations to you and Holly!

[Debbie and Toby]

Congratulations, Holly!

[Richard Crowe]

Actually an adult dog is best for therapy dog training while a puppy is what is required to be trained as a service dog. There is a great difference in the level of training between service dogs and therapy dogs. The requirement for a therapy dog is a lot less stringent. Mainly, the dog must be well behaved (such as Canine Good Citizen) and should interact well with people.

There are even "reading dogs" who just lay there while kids read to them. Kids who have reading problems will often do better reading to a friendly dog laying there than trying to read to people. There are dogs that are used in special education plans for children with disabilities and, of course, animals who visit nursing homes and bring cheer to the residents there.

One of my Maltese was my therapy dog when I had back problems and consequent surgery. She would stay with me in bed all day with just an occasional potty and food break. It is amazing how much that darling dog helped my morale when I was in heavy pain.

[F, Calla & Luca]

The dog can certainly be older. Puppies are really not great candidates for certain kinds of training but they are good candidates for basic obedience.

[Michele Barton]

Congratulations!!! I don't blame Holly for not donning the cap and gown - a girl does have to protect her dignity!

[Jaime]

Great job! Make sure you let us know how the VA visits work out.

[Kathie and the gang]

Congratulations!! Great job!! You will both have a rewarding time do therapy work.

[Richard Crowe]

Thanks everyone for your wonderful and heart warming comments.

[Kyoko]

Congratulations!! Great job!!

[Adina P]

Congratulations! She'll be a wonderful helper as therapy dog =)