THERAPY DOG CERTIFICATION 
    Dreamworker Therapy Dog certification begins at the beginning....basic obedience and temperament. Potential therapy dogs are screened by the training director and assisting Dreamworkers members. Every step of the process is a learning experience for all the people involved. Dreamworker members are increasing their knowledge of animal behavior and training while helping potential new members learn the skills necessary for work with therapy animals .

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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