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Dogs are frequently used in various types of pet therapy work. Some programs are formally set up to provide specific therapy for a specific patient or client. Others are more casual as in the visiting pet programs in residential settings such as nursing homes or rehabilitation facilities.


Some people prefer to distinguish between the two by referring to one program as "Animal Assisted Therapy," which is more structured and individualized, and "Visiting Pets." In all cases, the personality of the dog is more important than the breed. There are mixed breed dogs that have been wonderful therapy and service dogs.


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EditSteps

  1. Involve a Dog in Pet Therapy Work Step 1.jpg
    1
    Decide which program would work best for you and your pet. The more formal programs often involve specific training and certification. No matter which program appeals to you, start off by enrolling your pet in an A.K.C Canine Good Citizenship training program.
  2. Involve a Dog in Pet Therapy Work Step 2.jpg
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    Find a suitable dog. You could start off by contacting any local hospital that uses dogs in their therapy programs. It is likely that they will be more than willing to put you in contact with the necessary people. Otherwise, search online or in the Yellow Pages for dog therapy/pet therapy companies in your area. You should also make sure the dog has a calm, even temperament before you decide it is right for therapy work. A hyper or fearful dog will not do well in a hospital environment.
  3. Involve a Dog in Pet Therapy Work Step 3.jpg
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    Ask the pet therapy specialist some key questions. These include:
    • The cost
    • The availability of the dog
    • They type of dog
    • The ability to change the dog if the initial dog doesn't gel with the patient
    • The ability of the dog to be brought into the patient's care facility
    • Ongoing program ideas
  4. Involve a Dog in Pet Therapy Work Step 4.jpg
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    Be sure to check with the patient what their wants are in relation to pet therapy. Work their wishes into any program established to work with the patient.


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EditTips

    1. If you decide on a more casual, visiting pet approach, carefully and honestly assess your pet for suitability. Visiting pets must be calm, sociable, attentive and polite. Some dogs are very social but have high energy levels; some very calm dogs are aloof and withdrawn.
      • Consider joining a group such as Love on a Leash (national organization) or a local organization. Such a group provides invaluable assistance and feedback both in getting started and in charting the best course for you and your dog.

Article Info

Categories: Stub | Choosing a Dog | Pets and Animals

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