In order to participate in a pet
therapy program, dogs and their handlers must pass a certification test.
This test includes activities from the Canine Good Citizen Program and
additional activities added by Therapy Dogs International (TDI). With some
training, most dogs with a stable personality can pass the test to do
therapy work.
Dog handlers are responsible
for the preparation of their dog to pass the certification test. An
evaluator certified by Therapy Dogs International will conduct the test.
If desired, owners and handlers may seek assistance from professional
trainers to help them prepare for the test. For those interested in such
assistance, Signature K-9 offers a training program at a reduced price.
The program consists of three private
sessions
Sessions are scheduled by appointment. Puppies begin their training in
our Puppy & Young Dog Program. The Adult Dog Program includes:
Session#1
Consists of a behavior evaluation,
discussion of training goals, and first steps in training.
Session#2
Continues training and
behavior shaping with a focus on the specific needs of the dog and
handler.
Session#3
Includes continued refinement of the
behaviors required of a Therapy Dog.
Test Preparation
Progress in
preparing for the Therapy Dog Certification Test will depend on the dog
handler’s willingness to work with their dog between sessions.
To qualify for a reduced cost
You must
indicate a willingness to become a member of Rainbow Therapy Dogs, Inc.
Rainbow Therapy Dogs
A non-profit
organization which meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month in
Alliance, Ohio. Members of the organization represent several counties in
NE Ohio and visit hospitals, nursing homes, schools and other
organizations where a dog’s company may bring comfort, pleasure, or
education.
After Passing the Certification Test
Registration forms are filed with
the national organization, identification credentials and a liability
insurance policy are issued by Therapy Dogs International.
Link to Therapy Dogs
International
To review
skills that must be mastered to be a certified therapy dog,
click here: Therapy Dogs
International.
Mentorship
Rainbow Therapy Dogs provides a
mentorship program. In this program, new members visit facilities with an
experienced dog and handler team. After the mentorship, members may visit
facilities of their choice. The organization also sponsors group
projects which members participate in on a volunteer basis.
Location &
Contact:
Signature K-9 Behavior & Training
is located in NE Ohio, 2 miles south of Ohio SR 224 on Ohio SR 44 in
Marlboro Twp,, Stark County, Ohio
Mailing Address is: 14143 Ravenna
Avenue NE, Alliance, Ohio 44601
Telephone: 330-935-0186, E-mail:
bigdogs@neo.rr.com
