CERTIFY YOUR DOG AS A THERAPY DOG

If you believe your dog has the right temperament to be a Therapy dog, you may be able to join our Lend a Paw team. Both dogs and handlers (you) must pass the Lend a Paw Therapy Dog Test, be willing to attend at least 2 meetings a year and make a commitment to visit one of our locations at least every other month.

Requirements:

• Your dog must have an even temperament and be eager and willing to meet new people. Therapy work cannot be forced on a dog. He or she must look forward to providing companionship to other people.

• Your dog must be at least 1 year old and up to date on all vaccinations.

• Your dog must have obedience training and pass the Lend a Paw Therapy Dog test. We provide obedience classes and testing for those dogs (and handlers) that need it.

• In addition to obedience, the LAP test is required to determine the dog's character and comfort level with strange objects, situations and environments. Handlers (you) are also required to pass this test to determine the level of control they have over their dog as well as a basic understanding of dog behavior.

• Once your dog has passed all testing, you will be invited to attend LAP meetings quarterly (only 2 are required per year). You must complete 6 hours of supervised volunteer visits to be fully certified.

• Your dog must be spayed or neutered.

All Lend a Paw members will be provided with a Lend a Paw shirt, ID badges, and therapy dog vest.

For more information about how to get your dog certified as a Lend a Paw Therapy Dog, contact Sharon Vincuilla at sharon@k9sonly.com or 818-344-9663.