Our Classes Include the Following

• Discussion of techniques for effective interaction between visiting teams and patients.

• Fascinating insights into the learning abilities of canines and how to augment this learning process.

• Identifying vest for your dog and a certificate award of class completion.

• AKC-Canine Good Citizenship test and certificate (when test passed)

• Assistance in helping you identify the most appropriate therapy dog program for your interests.

Class Details

• Classes are held on Saturdays from 10:00 to 11:30 am for 6 consecutive weekly meetings at our training center in Corona.
• Class size is limited so early registration is recommended.
• Pre-registration is required with a $50 deposit and balance to be paid the first day of class

Class One

We begin with an overview of the many different therapy dog programs and a discussion about the variety of populations who can benefit from canine therapy visits. We will also introduce and practice two very important therapy dog commands which will get each therapy visit off to a positive start. (Watch me & Say Hello) The class will include a demonstration on ways to interact with patients in wheelchairs so that the dog is close enough for the patient to pet while not being allowed to jump up or scratch fragile skin.

If you and your dog would like to join us in this very rewarding project the first step is to complete the on-line application (below) and meet with us for an evaluation of your "team". During the evaluation we will determine if your dog needs additional training and if it is suited for Therapy work. To set up an evaluation or for additional information, please contact us at:

pawsoflove@pathwaystohope.org

To get things started, please complete our on-line application

Cost

• Full Fee (one dog per handler): $130
• Repeat/Review (former students): $100

Class Two

We'll have a discussion on the importance of reading your dog’s body language. Since the handler’s primary responsibility during a therapy visit is his/her dog, the focus of this class will be to teach students how to identify signs of stress and alter the visit as necessary to insure a positive experience for both the dog and the person being visited. We will also teach and practice the most important command you can teach your dog … .the “leave it” command.

Class Three

Designed for hands-on work with the dogs we will include instruction and practice with backing up, paws up, resting head on a person's lap, and hand touch. Each student will have the opportunity to work on each skill.

Class Four

This class will be devoted to role playing stations in which experienced therapy dog handlers will play the roles of simulated patients. Students will rotate from station to station as if on a therapy visit. Each station will include a different therapy situation. The purpose of this exercise is for the handlers to see how their dogs respond to these new environments and stimuli. At the end of class, students will learn about personal therapy experiences from the volunteers.

Class Five

We will have a supervised visit at a facility and practice the techniques for therapy visits in a group setting. Student will be accompanied by experienced therapy dog handlers who will coach the team as to effective ways to interact with individuals at the facility.

Class Six

Test Time -Students will be asked to demonstrate the therapy dog behavior their dogs have learned. Class will culminate with a short graduation ceremony and photos with graduation cap on each dog.

This test is equivalent to AKC Good Citizenship and will be conducted by our AKC-CGC Evaluator; upon passing your dog will also receive an AKC-CGC certificate!

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