Therapy Dog Program

Sponsored by Tails of Joy, Inc.

Tails of Joy members are committed to bringing joy to others through their pets. While visiting is done as a team, the pet is the star of the show. Teams visit with people in their own homes, hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities. Some members participate in hospice programs providing end-of-life comfort, while others visit in schools and children's facilities, participating in reading and educational programs.

A few members go beyond visiting and provide animal assisted therapy with their pets in a treatment setting, such as occupational or physical therapy.

If you are interested in training your dog the skills necessary for therapy dog work consider joining one of our Pet Therapy Classes.

Pet Therapy Level I

This class reinforces current skills and teaches new skills needed when visiting a nursing home, hospital or individual. Before starting this class, dogs should be at least 10 months old and have basic obedience skills including sit, down  stay and polite walking. This class is appropriate for students who have successfully completed Family Dog II.  Students with comparable training from other programs may also attend providing they have a thorough understanding of positive reinforcement training techniques.  Placement will be contingent on evaluation by the instructor. 

 Fee:  $150.00 for 8 one hour classes

Date:   Saturday, May 31st, 2008

To register or for information email: Sue Gagnon                                

Pet Therapy Level II

This class builds on the Level I skills and provides experience with medical equipment and exposure to the variety of experiences that may occur while visiting. The main focus of the class is to prepare the handler and dog to take the Delta Society Pet Partner’s Evaluation to become a registered Pet Partner.

Fee:  $150.00 for 8 one hour classes

Date:  Saturday, May 31st, 2008

To register or for information Contact Sue Gagnon