Therapy Dog Organizations Directory
After you’ve gained the confidence that your dog is ready for volunteering, reach out to a local therapy dog organization (shown below) to help prepare you and your dog for testing and therapy dog certification.
Alliance of Therapy Dogs
Nationwide organization with local East Bay ATD Observers/Testers shown on their website.
Basic Requirements for Enrollment
Most Therapy Dog Organizations have requirements for both handlers and their therapy dogs. Please see the list below for some of the most common requirements.
Dog Requirements
Be at least one year old
Must be spayed or neutered
Must be current on vaccinations (i.e. DHPP, rabies, bordetella)
Must be able to walk on a loose leash with a flat collar (i.e. no prong, slip chain or e-collars allowed)
Must demonstrate good obedience skills and manners (e.g. CGC test items on the Get Started page)
Ideally, dog really enjoys people and enjoys approaching strangers
Handler Requirements
Must be at least 18 years of age
Had household ownership of dog for at least 6 months
Be able to identify their dog’s emotions (e.g. stressed, discomfort, fatigue)
Pass a background check (Note: Therapy dogs organizations will share the details about this)
Demonstrate positive reinforcement when handling their therapy dog
Start Volunteering
Start participating in volunteer settings