What You Need To Know About Owning A Therapy Dog

I did not love my college experience. I was homesick, would often get lost on campus, and did not always have the best grades. Full discretion, I got a D in microeconomics and still do not fully grasp the concept of money. 

Anyway, the main highlight of my academic career was seeing the therapy dogs that graced our library during finals week. I will tell you from first-hand experience that hugging a Golden Retriever will lessen the stress of having to write a 30 page paper on Marie de France. 

Ever since that experience, I have been interested in getting a therapy dog to help other college students who aren’t doing so hot.

Here’s what you need to know if you’ve also wanted to own a therapy dog. 

Photo Credit: Richard Brutyo

Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is a therapy dog? According to the American Kennel Club, these types of furry friends can help lessen anxiety and “bring comfort” to individuals who are in need. In particular, therapy dogs are often seen cuddling hospital patients, residents of long-term care facilities, and students. While speaking to the AKC, Linda Keehn, CPDT-KA, explained that “therapy dogs go out to hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, schools, disasters.” 

“Essentially any venue where a clientele exists and it would be helpful for the dogs to be there,” shared the owner of Positive Canine Training and Services. 

Photo Credit: Eric Ward

While any breed can be a therapy dog, they must have the temperament and willingness to be trained. In addition, your pooch must stay calm and friendly no matter their circumstance or environment. 

“It could be the nicest dog in your living room, but not elsewhere. Most often in a therapy situation, people just want a dog that sits next to them and lets itself be a pet,” explained Keehn. 

Photo by Courtney Mihaka on Unsplash

While speaking to The Oregonian in 2020, Dana Miller, a French teacher at Franklin High School in Portland, explained why she decided to train her dog, Archie, to become a therapy dog for her students.

 “We got him as a family dog, but we’ve known that he’s too good not to share. He’s always been kind, gentle, and sweet,” stated the teacher. 

 You will also need to train your furry friend to ensure that they fit the necessary requirements to become a certified therapy dog. 

Photo by Jack Brind on Unsplash

Have you ever interacted with a therapy dog? Let us know in the comments below!