The following process is specific to Animal Assisted Therapy programs that work in conjunction with Paws4Therapy, Inc. and Dogbuilders.  We are one of the few programs that train our dogs to visit patient rooms, Critical Care Units, and Peds ER.  Other programs are less rigid with their infection control policies and training requirements, and are only allowed to visit in common areas. 

Because of our advanced level of AAT work, we require that all dog/handler teams a possess a high level of obedience and manners.  After successfully passing the application and phone screening process, you will be scheduled to participate in a temperament test.  Temperament tests are scheduled by the hospital's AAT group and occur 1-2 times a year. 

During the temperament test, you may be nervous and you will send this nervous energy down the leash.  We allow time for you to settle down, but we still expect that you maintain control of your dog.  Our temperament test begins in the parking lot.  It is acceptable to give your dog corrections and redirections to help maintain control.  

We enforce the 2-foot rule.  Dogs should not get any closer than 2 feet from each other.  If your dog shows any sort of aggression you will be excused immediately.  Once you commit to a time slot, no refunds are given.  Another qualified candidate could have taken your spot. 

• Obedience

   

  Your dog should be able to walk by your side in heel position with a loose leash around distractions like other dogs, equipment, food, and noises.  If your dog pulls you in the room or sniffs other dogs, you will NOT pass the temperament test!

   

   

  Your dog must perform the following commands:  sit, down, stay, sit stay, down stay, heel by your side.  If you repeat your commands with no compliance or if you make overly harsh leash corrections, you will NOT pass the temperament test!

    

• Social Behaviors/Manners

   

  Your dog should be calm and relaxed around other dogs

   

   

  Your dog should not show any anxiety

   

  Barking or whining needs to be minimal and controllable.  You will be excused if your dog will not settle down.  We do this to be fair to the other dog handler teams testing.

   

  No jumping, sniffing, or pawing.  You will not pass if your dog bites or jumps on the tester.

   

  Dog to dog interaction is not allowed which means no sniffing or staring.  A dog will be excused if he exhibits excessive prey or play drive.

   

  If your dog growls at any time during the test, you will be excused.  If your dog shows excessive signs of stress or will not stop verbalizing, you will be excused.

   

• Appearance

   

  Your dog's ears should be clean, nails trimmed, teeth brushed, coat should be clean and groomed.  You and your dog are being tested, so you should be presentable as well.

   

   

• Touch Tolerance

   

  Dog should accept touch and petting.  A dog that hides behind the owner or does not seem to enjoy strangers will not pass the test. 

   

• Equipment

   

  Acceptable equipment - martingales, slip collars, slip leashes, buckle collars (harnesses by exception only)

   

  Equipment NOT allowed -  head halters (they look like muzzles), prong collars, clickers, treats, retractable leashes, harnesses

Please understand that not all dogs and owners are ready for this type of therapy work.  Please do not apply if your dog:

         - has not been properly trained or socialized

         - shows any type of aggression

         - retreats from strangers

         - will not obey your commands around other dogs

If your dog has a nice temperament, but not a high level of obedience, work with professional dog trainer.  A professional trainer can improve your handling skills and your dog's obedience.  Your trainer should be insured and have experience with all types of dogs and training equipment. 

Caution:  Not all dog trainers will be able to train you to the level of obedience required in a hospital program.  Screen your trainer carefully.  If your dog has been trained with treats only and you have not faded the treat reward effectively, your chance of passing our test is very low.       

We have dogs available for purchase that are trained specifically for therapy dog work. 

Visit our Custom Dog Building page