Interested in Joining Helping Idaho Dogs?

Our visiting teams are certified with Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Inc.  One of the 3 nationally recognized therapy groups in the United States.

Therapy Dogs visit in Skilled Nursing Facilities, Acute Hospitals, Hospice, Retirement Homes, Psychiatric Facilities,  Daycare Centers, Rehab Units, Schools, Community Events.  
Therapy Dogs visit anywhere they are invited and welcome.

Do I get paid to do this?
You do, but not with currency.  You’ll be paid with the overwhelming joy of watching your dog touch others in ways no one else can.  Your heart grows a bit larger when you are involved in pet therapy.
This does require a definite dedication of your time.

What Makes a Good Therapy Dog?
The breed does not matter. What does matter is that the dog is well socialized and enjoys greeting and visiting with people.  The dog should also enjoy being petted and touched.
And, of course, he must be under the handler’s control at all times.
Therapy dogs must be able to function around other dogs.  
A basic novice obedience class or similar training is suggested.
Above all, socialize, socialize, socialize.

How Can My Dog and I Become Involved?
To begin, you will contact Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Inc (therapydogs.com) to start your background check, visit your veterinarian to obtain a clean fecal test and obtain proof of current vaccinations.  Then you and your dog will be evaluated by an Alliance of Therapy Dogs Tester/Observer.  If all goes well, you and your dog will attend a minimum of 3 pet therapy visits with the Tester/Observer.

Helping Idaho Dogs is glad to answer any questions you may have and also guide you in this process.