What is a Therapy Dog?

Therapy Dogs are used for the benefit, both physical and emotional, of people in hospitals, seniors' residences, nursing homes, day care centres, special needs schools, psychiatric hospitals and many other places where people may be restricted from having pets. The medical profession has widely acknoweledged that stroking and petting animals can have a calming effect, lower blood pressure, and relieve tension.

Just about any dog of sound temperament can become a Therapy Dog. However, certain capabilities must be demonstrated such as accepting a friendly stranger, staying calm, sitting on command, and reacting well to other dogs and/or distractions.