Southern Charm School for Dogs - What is a Therapy Dog?

I am often asked what is a Therapy Dog, where Therapy Dogs may go once they are certified, and if they may go anywhere in the US. And my answer is that it depends on where you are wanting to take the certified therapy dog.

A therapy dog is a well trained and socialized dog who has been certified by taking a test with his owner which evaluates the dog and handler's ability to work as a well-mannered team in order to make visits to health care facilities and other facilities where a therapy dog may make a difference in the lives of others. For people who love animals, petting an animal can lower blood pressure, provide a smile to someone who may not be feeling their best, and provide a little joy. Therapy dogs are not only used in nursing home visits these days, but in hospitals and libraries as well.

Some therapy dog certifying groups do not require special classes in order to have a dog evaluated; many simply require that the dog be one year of age. These groups leave how well prepared and socialized the dog is for pet therapy work to the discretion of the owner. Other certifying groups not only suggest therapy dog class(es), but also require several hours of supervised pet therapy visitation, leading to a well prepared pet therapy team.

Therapy dogs are certified to go on pet therapy visits with facilities that allow therapy dogs. If your dog was certified in Mississippi, but you have an aunt in Ohio who loves dogs and would like to take your dog to visit her, you would work with the facility's Recreational Therapist or Activity Director to schedule a visit, abiding by their rules. They may require proof of all vaccinations and a recent fecal, your dog's photo id, etc. They may only allow you to visit your friend/relative, or they may be thrilled if you would allow them to set up a visit with all of the residents.

Certification does not provide a way for dogs to go into places that don't normally allow dogs. In other words, these dogs are not considered service dogs and they are only allowed to go where they have been given permission to go only for pet therapy visits. This certification will not provide credentials for dogs to go on cruises, in restaurants, or any other place where dogs are not normally allowed. Most certifying organizations will revoke pet therapy certification if this is attempted.