The first step is temperament screening.
Does the dog show a willingness to
interact with others?
Is the dog calm in a relaxed setting?
Does the dog show a willingness to
try new things?
The second step is the AKC
Canine Good Citizen test.
This is a ten part test that proves
that your dog has basic
good manners and obedience. After
this test, you are invited
to make a nursing facility visit without
your dog. If you
are still interested in pursuing therapy
dog certification, you
and your dog will begin to make supervised
visits with an
established Dreamworkers team.
The third step is the Dreamworkers certification test.
This test consists of components including:
the dog remaining calm during
clumsy petting, accepting an approach
by
a person with an unsteady gait, approaching
a wheelchair or walker, being held
by a stranger,
a restraining hug or lift, and group
petting.
Distractions such as loud noises,
shouting, and
sudden movements are also part of
the test.
After completing the Dreamworkers certification test and
making atleast
three supervised visits with a Dreamworkers
team the new team is
ready to join Dreamworkers, Inc. The
organization provides the team
with insurance coverage as long as
they maintain their membership
standing.Teams may make visits independently
or with the teams at
established facilities in the area.
Members are invited to be as active in the Dreamworkers
as their
time allows. As a volunteer organization
we need "forever" folks.
These are people who want to make
an ongoing commitment to
helping others. This may be in the
form of weekly visits, helping
to keep the organization running smoothly,
or putting to use a
special talent such as fundraising
or public relations.
Return to What is a Therapy Animal?
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