Therapy Dogs:

• Must remain behaviorally stable in a wide range of environments.
• Must be free from aggressive behavior and non-reactive to the public including other animals, humans, transportation vehicles, objects, and are neutral to sights, sounds, and scents.
• Are social animals, they are calm, gentle and well mannered.
• Have strong social connections with the general public, ranging from young children to the elderly.
• Are skilled and certified in basic to advanced obedience.
• Are formally trained, evaluated and accredited through Paws 4 Peace USA.
• Are healthy, clean, well-groomed, and free from parasites.
• Are focused and attentive four legged counselors.

Therapy Dog Benefits:

• Reduce stress, anxiety, depression
• Provide companionship and comfort
• Increase feelings of safety and well-being
• Combat loneliness in the elderly
• Boosts immune system
• Can help reduce pain
• Lowering blood pressure
• Nervous system co-regulation

How long does it take to become a therapy dog?

From puppyhood to certified therapy dog, it can take 6 – 18 months.

How much does it cost to become a therapy dog?

Depending on the dog’s age, maturity and the competency level, the cost can range between $950 – $1,800 which includes the cost of required classes and private lessons.

Requirements for Program Entry:

• Candidates for the therapy dog program will have an in-home temperament evaluation.
• After the required initial home visit and evaluation, the training strategy, based on age, will be the following required classes:
  • Junior Puppy
  • Senior Puppy
  • AKC CGC
  • AKC CGCA
  • AKC CGCU
  • Therapy
• Required Veterinary exam

Qualifications – Breed all about it!

Any breed including mixed breeds are welcome.

Therapy dogs are adults that have a behaviorally stable temperaments, are socially confident and competent in public.

Although we recommend starting as soon as possible (around 8 weeks old), most therapy dogs start working and training at 2 years plus. Senior dogs are welcome.

Therapy dogs must have a proclivity to work with the population that they are serving. Some dogs prefer children over senior citizens or vice versa.

Susan’s Border Collie, Lotus, loves visiting with senior citizens but prefers to skip the preschool crowd — she’d rather gently “herd” the kids than play with them! That’s why Lotus visits assisted living homes instead of schools.

When can I get started?

ASAP

What is the responsibility of the handler of the therapy dog?

All aspects of handler responsibilities are thoroughly covered in our required training classes.

What would disqualify a dog from being a therapy dog?

Therapy dogs must demonstrate confidence, stability, and composure in a wide range of environments. They should remain calm and responsive, without showing signs of fear, startle responses, or excessive vocalization.
Dogs exhibiting anxiety, insecurity, or aggressive behavior are not suitable for therapy work at this time. Owners of such dogs are encouraged to utilize our behavioral modification services to address these concerns and support the development of a more confident, well-adjusted companion.

How do you know if your dog is right for therapy?

Paws 4 Peace USA evaluates all dogs prior to coming into the therapy dog program.