What is a Therapy Dog?

Therapy dogs provide comfort and emotional support to individuals in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and disaster areas. While they are similar to service dogs in the assistance they provide, therapy dogs serve a different purpose and are not afforded the same legal protections or permissions. This comprehensive guide will explore what therapy dogs are, the environments where they are used, and the legal framework that governs their access and rights.

A therapy dog is a dog that has been trained to provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support to people in various settings. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs are not trained to perform specific tasks for an individual with a disability. Instead, their role is to help improve the emotional well-being of a group of people in environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and libraries.

Therapy dogs can be used for:

• Reducing stress and anxiety: Visiting therapy dogs in hospitals or nursing homes can help patients relax and feel comforted.
• Improving socialization: In schools or therapy settings, therapy dogs can help children and adults open up, build confidence, and reduce fear or social anxiety.
• Assisting in disaster recovery: Therapy dogs provide emotional support to people dealing with the aftermath of traumatic events like natural disasters or crises.

Therapy dogs are typically volunteers who work with a handler, such as a therapist, nurse, or teacher, and may visit multiple locations to provide their support.

Legal Framework for Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs have important roles in many settings, but they do not have the same legal protections as service dogs. The legal status of therapy dogs varies depending on the environment and the specific law in question. The following are key points to understand about therapy dogs’ rights and legal status:

1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
   • The ADA provides protections for individuals with disabilities who rely on service dogs. However, therapy dogs are not covered under the ADA because they are not trained to assist individuals with specific disabilities.
   • As a result, therapy dogs do not have automatic access to public spaces like restaurants, stores, or transportation unless the facility allows them as part of a specific program, such as hospital visits.
2. Fair Housing Act (FHA)
   • The FHA allows individuals with disabilities to have emotional support animals (ESAs) in housing units, even if there is a “no pets” policy. However, therapy dogs are not automatically protected under the FHA unless they are also classified as ESAs for a person with a specific mental health condition.
   • If a therapy dog is providing emotional support for a person in a housing situation, it may be allowed under the FHA, but the individual would need to provide documentation from a licensed healthcare professional to confirm the need for the dog.
3. Workplace Protections
   • Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs do not have federal protections to accompany handlers to the workplace under the ADA.
   • Some employers may allow therapy dogs as part of workplace wellness programs or for specific therapeutic purposes, but this is entirely up to the employer’s discretion.
4. State and Local Laws
   • Some states may have laws or guidelines allowing therapy dogs in certain public places, such as hospitals or schools. However, these are generally confined to specific environments where therapy dogs are part of formal programs or structured activities.

Roles and Uses of Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs serve in a wide range of settings, primarily to provide emotional support and improve well-being. Some common places where therapy dogs work include:

1. Healthcare Facilities (Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Rehabilitation Centers)
   • Therapy dogs visit patients to help reduce stress, improve mood, and aid in recovery. They can offer comfort to patients undergoing treatment or recovering from illness and injury.
   • Research has shown that interactions with therapy dogs can lower heart rates, reduce anxiety, and improve the overall experience of hospital visits for both patients and staff.
2. Schools and Libraries
   • Therapy dogs are used in educational settings to help children with reading difficulties or social anxiety. Children may read aloud to therapy dogs as part of educational programs designed to boost confidence and improve literacy skills.
   • In libraries, therapy dogs may be part of reading programs that encourage children to engage with reading in a relaxed, non-judgmental environment.
3. Disaster Relief and Crisis Intervention
   • After natural disasters or traumatic events, therapy dogs are deployed to provide emotional comfort to survivors and first responders. These dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety in crisis situations and bring a sense of calm to affected individuals.
4. Therapy Sessions and Mental Health Support
   • Therapy dogs are used by licensed mental health professionals to assist in therapy sessions. They may be used to help individuals with emotional disorders, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and more.
   • They can provide emotional support during therapy sessions or during crisis situations, and their presence can help foster a calming atmosphere.

Rights of Therapy Dogs and Handlers

Since therapy dogs are not covered under the ADA, they do not have the broad public access rights that service dogs do. However, there are some key rights and considerations for handlers of therapy dogs:

1. Access to Private or Specific Public Spaces:
   • Therapy dogs do not automatically have access to most public spaces. However, they are generally allowed in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and libraries if they are part of an organized program.
   • The owner or handler of a therapy dog should ensure they are working within a formal therapeutic program or with an organization that is approved to bring therapy dogs into these environments.
2. Volunteering in Facilities:
   • Therapy dogs are usually part of a volunteer program through organizations like Pet Partners, Therapy Dogs International (TDI), Dawgs at Work LLC or other local animal therapy programs. These organizations provide certification and guidelines for the dogs and their handlers.
   • Handlers must comply with the rules and procedures of these organizations, which may include temperament evaluations, health checks, and annual re-certification.
3. Liability and Insurance:
   • Therapy dog handlers should be aware of liability issues in the case of an incident, such as a bite or injury. Many therapy dog programs offer insurance coverage for volunteers, but handlers should also ensure they are protected under the program’s policies.

Responsibilities of Therapy Dog Handlers

While therapy dogs provide essential services to people in need, handlers also have several responsibilities to ensure the dogs are well-prepared and perform their roles effectively:

1. Training and Certification:
   • Therapy dogs must undergo training to ensure they can handle a variety of environments and interact appropriately with people in different emotional states. Handlers must also undergo training to learn how to manage their dog in various situations.
   • Therapy dogs should be calm, well-behaved, and non-aggressive in any environment. They must be able to work with different people and remain patient in challenging or stressful settings.
2. Health and Safety:
   • Therapy dog handlers must ensure their dogs are in good health and are regularly vetted to meet the requirements of therapy organizations. This includes maintaining proper vaccinations and grooming.
   • Handlers should be mindful of the needs of both the dog and the people they are serving. Therapy dogs should not be overworked or placed in situations where they may become stressed or uncomfortable.
3. Respecting Boundaries:
   • Therapy dog handlers must respect the privacy and boundaries of people they are interacting with. Not all individuals may be comfortable with a therapy dog, and handlers must be sensitive to these preferences.
   • Additionally, handlers should ensure that the therapy dog is under control at all times and is not disrupting or harming individuals.

Distinguishing Therapy Dogs from Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

It’s important to distinguish between therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals (ESAs):

• Service Dogs: Trained to perform specific tasks for an individual with a disability and protected under the ADA.
• Therapy Dogs: Trained to provide emotional support to groups of people in various settings, but they do not have public access rights under the ADA.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Provide comfort to individuals with mental health conditions, but they are not required to perform tasks and do not have public access rights. ESAs are typically allowed in housing situations under the Fair Housing Act and on some airlines under the Air Carrier Access Act.

Conclusion

Therapy dogs play a crucial role in improving emotional well-being and providing comfort to people in a variety of settings. While they do not have the same legal protections and rights as service dogs, they are an integral part of therapeutic programs and can have a profound impact on individuals in need of emotional support. Handlers of therapy dogs must ensure their dogs are properly trained and certified, as well as adhere to the guidelines set by the organizations they work with. By understanding the roles, rights, and responsibilities of therapy dogs, handlers, and the organizations involved, society can continue to benefit from the positive influence of therapy dogs in improving health and well-being.

At Dawgs at Work, we understand that every dog and handler are unique, which is why our training program is based on a fully customized plan designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a fully trained dog for sale, a personalized training journey for a puppy, or training for an existing dog, we have a solution tailored just for you.

How Our Training Process Works:

1. Consultation Meeting: The first step is to reach out to us to schedule a consultation, which typically lasts between 45-60 minutes. This is a crucial time for us to get to know you, your dog, and your goals. During this meeting, we will discuss your preferences and the best path forward. To set up your appointment you can email us at: info@dawgsatwork.com 

2. Customized Training Plan: Based on the information gathered during the consultation, we’ll create a training program designed specifically for you and your dog. We offer a variety of options:

Fully Trained Dogs for Sale: If you’re looking to bring a fully trained dog into your home, we have a selection of dogs available that have already undergone thorough training and are ready for a new family.

Puppy Sourcing & Training: For those who prefer to start with a puppy, we will source the right puppy for you, then initiate a comprehensive training program where the puppy will live with their future handler throughout the training process, ensuring a smooth transition to a well-behaved companion. All puppies that come through this program will be enrolled in a special access in-home board and train program for a minimum of one week (maximum of three weeks) with our lead trainer in her home to ensure the highest quality socialization and desensitization process as well as initial housebreaking!

Training & Certification for Existing Dogs: If you already have a dog and are interested in certifying them as a therapy or ministry dog, we offer specialized evaluation and training to help your dog achieve their certification and become a valuable companion in therapeutic or ministry settings. If your dog is between the ages of 8 weeks to 4 months of age you have the option to enroll them in an optional in-home board and train program with our lead trainer (from 1-3 weeks) to get them started off on the right paw!

No matter where you are in your journey, we are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring that both you and your dog are equipped with the skills and confidence needed for success. Let’s work together to create the perfect training experience for you and your dog!

We believe the bond between handler and dog is essential for success. Therefore, all foster families and handlers must complete our certification program, which covers:

 **Basics in Canine Cognition**: Understanding how dogs think and learn is vital for effective training and communication. Our curriculum provides insights into canine behavior and psychology, enabling handlers to connect with their dogs on a deeper level.

**Training Techniques**: Handlers learn positive reinforcement methods, clicker training, and other effective techniques to reinforce desirable behaviors while allowing each dog’s personality to shine.

**Handling Skills**: Practical workshops provide hands-on experience in managing dogs in various environments, ensuring handlers are prepared to navigate everyday challenges while appreciating their dogs’ individuality.

**Emergency Procedures**: Handlers are trained to recognize and respond to potential emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the dog and those they assist.

**Please note that any client purchasing a fully trained dog from us will have this course included in the cost of the dog for the first two (2) handlers for the dog!

Most dogs will be enrolled in programs with us for a **minimum of six months**, regardless of the branch they will enter. This extended time allows us to:

**Thoroughly Evaluate Each Dog**: By spending more time with our dogs, we can better assess their behaviors and tailor their training to address common challenges that arise during critical developmental stages—from neonatal through to adulthood.

**Monitor Progress**: This long-term observation helps us identify any behavioral challenges early on, ensuring that our dogs grow into well-adjusted, reliable companions.

**Foster Individuality**: We prioritize creating an environment where each dog’s character can shine through their work, enhancing their ability to connect with their handlers and provide effective support.

Program Pricing

At Dawgs at Work, we believe in providing a truly personalized training experience for each client and their dog. Because of the unique nature of our programs, we unfortunately do not offer standard pricing up front. Every program is customized based on a variety of factors to ensure the best possible results for both you and your dog.

What Affects Pricing:

The final price of your program will depend on several key elements, including, but not limited to:

• Type of Program: We offer different program options, such as stepping out, stepping out with sourcing, or a complete program, each with its own scope and training requirements.
• Breed & Gender of Dog: The breed of your dog may influence the training process, as different breeds may have different learning needs. If we are sourcing a puppy for you or you are purchasing a complete program breeder pricing may affect cost depending on the breed and gender being selected.
• Dog Evaluation & Aptitude Testing: If you already own a dog, an evaluation and aptitude test will help us determine the best approach to their training and development.
• Training Progression & Milestones: The duration and intensity of the training needed, as well as the specific milestones your dog will achieve, will also be considered when tailoring your program.
• Course Milestone Testing: We include thorough assessments throughout the program to ensure your dog is meeting all necessary milestones on their training journey.

All of our training programs include certifications in key areas, ensuring your dog is well-rounded and prepared for various real-world situations. These certifications include:

• Beginner & Intermediate Obedience
• AKC Canine Good Citizen
• AKC Urban Canine Good Citizen
• AKC Community Canine
• Therapy Dog Handler Certification

Starting Price:

Our program costs start as low as $3,500.00, depending on the specific needs and customizations required. We’ll work closely with you to develop a program that fits both your goals and your budget, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your dog.

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us to schedule your consultation at info@dawgsatwork.com. We look forward to working with you to create the perfect training plan!