It's no surprise that a number of studies have found that owning a pet can be good for your health. So, it makes complete sense that our cuddly companions can help those who are lonely, ailing, or in stressful situations. Therapy dogs are there to comfort and spread the simple pleasure of a wag of a tail. These kind dogs visit the sick in hospitals and nursing homes, and the elderly in retirement homes. They visit children who are dealing with disease and illness, and they visit children who are learning to read in classrooms and libraries. Even the smallest amount of time spent with a soft, gentle dog can do wonders for whatever ails you!

Therapy dogs come in all shapes, sizes and breeds. The most important criteria for becoming a therapy dog is a calm, gentle nature, patient and friendly around new people. The dog must be well-socialized, healthy, and clean. Therapy dogs visit people to bring warmth and comfort, so they must love being with people, and happy to sit on a lap, or receive affection from all those wanting to give.

Proper training is important for therapy dogs. In general, they must have the skills necessary to pass the AKC's Canine Good Citizen test. Various organizations offer training and certification, including some national organizations and some local organizations. For training particulars, you should contact a related organization and research their specific criteria.


Meet some wonderful therapy dogs on wikiFido:

Simon (Whippet)	Click EasyEdit to feature a photo of your therapy dog here. Don't forget to link back to your dog's page!

Therapy dog/training resource links: