Become a Therapy Dog Team
Make a difference — together. Become a Therapy Dog Team
The human-canine bond has the power to inspire, comfort, and connect. CHAMP prepares dedicated handlers and their dogs to become effective therapy dog teams, bringing positive interactions and emotional support to individuals in a variety of community settings.
What is a Therapy Dog Team?
A therapy dog team consists of a well-trained dog and a dedicated handler who volunteer together to support people in a variety of environments. Therapy dogs are known for their calm temperament, friendly nature, and ability to bring joy, emotional support, and a sense of safety to those they visit. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs work with many people rather than assisting one individual person.
Is My Dog a Good Fit?
Successful therapy dogs are:
- Friendly and social with people
- Calm and confident in new environments
- Comfortable around crowds, noises, and distractions
- Well-mannered and responsive to commands
- Enjoy being handled and interacting with others
- Handlers should be patient, dependable, and passionate about serving the community alongside their dog.
To qualify, dogs must have lived with their current owner for at least six months, be a minimum of 18 months old, and demonstrate reliable basic obedience skills. There are no breed restrictions. Each dog is carefully evaluated for the ideal therapy temperament: friendly and welcoming to strangers, confident in new environments, quick to adapt to unexpected sights and sounds, and overall healthy and well-groomed. Above all, we want both the dogs and their humans to genuinely love the work.
Every successful therapy dog team starts with training. Our therapy dog team class equips handlers and their dogs with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to provide comfort and support in a variety of community settings. Through interactive instruction, practical exercises, and guided practice, you’ll learn how to work together effectively while preparing for the unique opportunities and responsibilities of therapy work.
Training & Preparation
CHAMP provides guidance, classes, and preparation opportunities to help teams build the skills needed for therapy work. Training focuses on:
- Advanced obedience and good manners
- Public interaction skills
- Calm behavior in distracting environments
- Handler communication and teamwork
- Therapy dog visit expectations and etiquette
Our goal is to help every team feel prepared, confident, and ready to serve safely and effectively.
Where Therapy Dog Teams Serve
CHAMP therapy dog teams may serve in settings such as:
- Schools and libraries
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Senior living communities
- Community events
- Counseling and support programs
- Corporate wellness events
- Celebrations of life and funerals
If you believe you and your dog have the temperament and heart for therapy work, we would love to help you take the next step. Becoming a therapy dog team is a rewarding experience that allows you and your dog to make a lasting impact – together.