How to start your dog in therapy

July 28, 7:02 PMDenver Dynamic Dogs ExaminerGail Kirkegaard

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Gail Kirkegaard is in this 2007 class - at the corner with blue coat.

Tuesday - DOGS THAT PARTNER

On Tuesdays, Denver Dynamic Dogs Examiner provides news and information about dogs that partner, such as service dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs and police K-9s.

How to get your dog started in therapy

Is your dog especially friendly and compassionate? Do you think he or she would enjoy visits to hospitals, nursing homes or other special facilities where people could use some unconditional love, cheering up and assistance with their physical therapy?

What kind of dog does it take?

All breeds are accepted, but they must pass a temperament test. The dog will also undergo a health and cleanliness screening. So wash him up, including his teeth and ears, and be sure his shots are up to date. He must practice basic obedience: come, sit, down, stay and heel, but he does not need to work with obedience trial precision. Beyond that, he must not be fearful or aggressive. It is best if your dog is the kind that seeks and craves human attention. It would also be good if he knows a few tricks, so the patients can play with him, such as fetch a ball or shake hands.

Where do I learn more?

Denver Pet Partners (DPP) schedules several weekend workshops every year for new pet partners. A licensed instructor provides 16 hours of intensive training that will prepare you for the various settings and situations in which you and your dog will work. The course covers your role as handler, the pet's role, and what you should expect from the medical professional. You will learn through a workbook, lectures, guest speakers and role play how to work in different types of facilities, such as hospitals, long term care, psychiatric, or schools. You will also discover the best ways to interact with clients.

"I gained a very thorough understanding and appreciation of the purpose and complexity of this type of volunteering." DPP Student

When is the next workshop?

The August class is full, but you can sign up for October 10 - 11. The course is $175. If you cannot afford to pay that much, ask them about the scholarship for those who have a demonstrated financial need and a genuine commitment to animal assisted activities and/or therapy. During the workshop and at the dog's evaluation after, you and your animal partner will  be assessed to determine your suitability and aptitude to function effectively as a Pet Partners team.

What about ongoing support?

You and your registered therapy pet may attend monthly DPP volunteer meetings, where you can meet and encourage other pet partners and get lots more information about pets and therapy dog service. You will also have a mentor available to help you if you have questions or problems as you begin your new role.

Read more Denver Dynamic Dogs Examiner articles about Dogs That Partner:

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• Career change dog brings young boy hope
• Veteran's service dog murdered
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• Dynamic dog needs to update her resume
• Therapy dog tasks and slideshow
• Roxann and Tay
• Dynamic K-9 sniffs for drugs at work, school home
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• Helping the dogs that partner
• Cranium Studio picks Freedom Service Dogs

What are "Dynamic Dogs?" It's a descriptive term I use for dogs with jobs, and dogs that get off the couch and out of the house to compete in games and work in the field. Here's a link to tell you more.

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