Therapy dog training anyone?

[GoldenBoyz]

Hello Everyone:
I am new to this forum. I am the proud owner of two Golden Retrievers. Rusty is 1 1 /2 years old and Rex his brother is 9 months old. My ultimate goal with the pups is to have them become therapy dogs for which we would volunteer at senior centers and convalescent homes and childrens hospitals.
I was just wondering if there is anyone out there who is completing such training with their dogs, or has completed or who also is looking into this.

Thanks. Look forward to hearing from you and joining in on our discussions. This looks like a great community!
Sue

 

[darkchild16]

im looking into it with Walker and Booger once we get her a cart. I looked at the akc site for the testing stuff and you can go to Therapy Dog International to find a place to go or a group to join hope that helps

 

[oc_spirit]

We''re not certified but we do go visit elderly. I just showed up at some nursing homes one day and asked if they''d like me to visit. Actually I showed up with my foster duckling first then later I brought dogs.

 

[bubbatd]

Four of my Goldens were TDI dogs ......... very rewarding !!

 

[otch1]

Hi... TDI is good, you can also go to The Delta Society, to see if they have a chapter in your state. Good luck!

 

[poodlesmom]

TDI is great! Some obed. schools run sessions to help you & your dog learn what the testing entails. My 7 yo Standard Poodle, Farley, passed the testing for certification. It is a wonderful feeling when you experience the joy your dog brings to those they visit. We have gone on a few visits to a local nursing home. There are quite a few dogs from the obed. school we are at that have their TDI certification. 1 Great Pyr goes to the major medical center and keeps the kids who are having chemo. company during their treatments. There are a couple of dogs who participate in a reading program with children at a local school. There is a group who meet weekly and go to various nursing homes alternating the facilities on a weekly basis.

Our school actually has classes for those who are interested in being tested for TDI to make sure they are prepared and then when they have enough dogs to be tested they set up a date with the TDI evaluator. Check out TDI's website and see what's available in your area.

 

[bubbatd]

It's great to have the " card " when traveling too !! Before motels got " dog friendly " I'd use ours to get rooms ! My car sports the logo and I love the patches ! Some day I may even certify Ollie !!! Long way off though !