Therapy Visiting
Therapy dogs work with their handlers during visits that offer comfort, companionship and positive social interaction. They may visit hospitals, care homes, schools, libraries and other community settings, where appropriate and welcomed.
Successful therapy work depends on the individual dog, not simply its breed or appearance. Suitable dogs enjoy meeting unfamiliar people, remain comfortable around everyday distractions and can settle calmly without being forced into interaction. Positive training, reliable manners and a trusting relationship with the handler help prepare a team for assessment.
The dog’s welfare comes first. Handlers should recognize signs of stress or fatigue, provide breaks and end visits when the dog is no longer comfortable. Each team must meet the visiting organization’s and host facility’s health, behavior and participation requirements.
This category identifies a potential role, not a qualification or guarantee of suitability. Therapy visiting is distinct from service-dog work; a breed listing does not establish that an individual dog is trained or approved for either role.
