The foundations of a good therapy dog are good training in the basics a high level of obedience excellent social skills an outgoing and friendly nature and absolutely zero signs of aggression.
Make my dog a therapy dog uk.
If you want to make your dog a therapy dog definitely take a look at how to train a therapy dog for deeper insight.
An assistance dog is legally permitted to accompany its client owner or partner at all times and in all places within the united kingdom.
It s a terrific idea to attend a few group classes with your dog particularly ones that work toward the akc s canine good citizen title.
Therapy dogs can be any breed and any size from a chihuahua to a great dane from a staffi to a rottweiler to a poodle.
A therapy dog does not have these same legal privileges.
Therapy dogs nationwide is a national charity where visiting volunteers take their own dogs into establishments to give comfort distraction and stimulation.
Donating your time and helping to assess suitable dogs is a great way to help promote animal therapy initiatives.
This is a very basic overview of training expectations.
Our volunteers have the unique privilege of volunteering with their own temperament tested therapy dogs.
Assistance dogs international adi and the international guide dog foundation igdf.
You can also plan fundraisers to raise awareness and funds in support of these crucial programmes.
However most uk companies or premises recognise the service dog that has been trained and certified by one of the following organisations.
There is no official registration for assistance dogs granted by the uk government.
This certification shows that your dog is socialized friendly and has adequate basic training.
Cgc is a great starting point for all potential therapy dogs because your dog will learn basic good manners in cgc including come sit stay down and how to respond appropriately around other dogs.
A great way to begin is to participate in the akc canine good citizen program cgc.
In fact cgc certification is a prerequisite for many therapy dog programs.