***NO CLASS 12/23/2024 for Christmas Break***. Class will end on 12/30/2024. Please note 3 weeks of classroom learning, week 4 class will meet at a local/community facility to visit people. Location TBD.

In this fun 4 week class you and your dog will be introduced to cues and skills needed

to become a great therapy dog team. This class is for dogs 1 year of age who have completed a Basic and Advanced Manners/ CGC class or equivalent. Ask about joining if your dog has not completed these classes, we do make exceptions. Dogs must be outgoing, social with all people and children and free from issue with other dogs. Please do not register if your dog is not social with all people or is shy. This class does not certify you as a therapy dog team. Teams who successfully complete all 4 weeks are guided to begin Therapy Dog Testing through Alliance of Therapy Dogs if appropriate. Testing is separate of class/training.

Loose Leash Walking- with distractions

Polite Greetings- Evaluate dog’s response to prolonged attention from strangers-Dogs must be free from shy/fearful or reactive/aggressive behavior

Sit, Down and Stand Stay Place/Settle

Positive exposure to mobility equipment

Leave it- used for food, dropped items, other dogs etc.

Paws up, “say hi”, back up, off

Handler Skills: understanding dog body language and stress signals

Upon completion dogs and handlers will have a good understanding of the skills needed to be prepared to explore Therapy Dog opportunities. The final class session dogs who graduate visit patrons in the community!

--Therapy DOG Skills