Wally loves his short jaunts outside. Only 5 mins each, per doctors orders, so it's great when there's a little sunshine! I was wondering - Does anyone have any information on becoming a therapy dog? The programs, training etc? Otis mentioned the idea of Walter being a therapy dog in the last post and even though it'll be awhile before Walter is ready for the public, it's something I've been thinking about more and more.
A friend told me Walter might be a good match for kids who are about to undergo surgeries or starting physical therapy. He could show them hard work, patience and positivity pay off!
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22 comments:
Hi Heather & Walter! I became a therapy dog at 5 months old. I am a quick learner and I love people.
My therapy group was organized by a woman who owned a PetSitter of America franchise. We visited a nursing home a few towns away and I loved every minute of it.
I did not have to attend any special training but I did have to take a test. Our group disbanded about 6 years ago because a lot of our doggie members died.
I think Walter would be a great therapy dog. He would be a real inspiration to kids needing surgery.
Stubby xoxo
Hi Heather,
The Heart of Minnesota Pug Club used to have a group that met at a nursing home and a therapy dog 'trainer'(?) would come and when you were ready you could take the test. In the meantime, you could carry Walter (if they are still doing it) in the nursing home and let him meet and greet his public. :) Let me know if you need contact info at all. I might be able to help, although I don't belong anymore. It's a great idea!
I don't know anything about it but I think Ruby did some- http://agenuineruby.blogspot.com I hope I am not mixing her up with another pretty doxie!
We think that would be a great idea for Wally!!!!!
Hi Heather and Walter
Our other little pug that we had before- had to use a wheelchair to get around. The vet recommened to us that she would be a good therapy dog to show children that are in wheel chairs that it is okay to need help sometimes. The vet said childrens hospitals and even nursing home residents would be blessed by the courage that our little dog had.
Even though Walter is going to get better he could share his story especailly if she gets a special shoe. There are soooo many kids out there that have to wear a specail boot. And not only a therapy dog- but this would make an excellent childrens book to be read to kids in childrens hospitals etc-.
Go get em Heather!
Does this help?
love
tweedles
ps- our little dog did not become a therapy dog- only due to illness in our family- we could not devote the time needed. But it is possible
xoxo
tweedles
My Maizy is a therapy dog certified through Therapy Dogs International. You can look them up and see if there are evaluators in your area. The test is very similar to the CGC test and Maizy loves being a therapy dog. :)
Hi Walter! Im a certified therapy dog! I can give you lots of information! There is a GREAT website that you can get lots of info on.. mntherapydogs.com.. Mom and i LOVE sharing our time and love all over the Twin Cities. We would LOVE to have you come with us sometime ~ anytime.. THOMP doesn't have an evaluater anymore, so that isn't an option.. Mom would love to talk to you and give you all the details.. Walter would be WONDERFUL, just like ME, tee! Call US momma Heather! XOXO
Oops, the site is mntherapyanimals.com...
Oooh what a wonderful idea! I have thought about doing that with Indy but the thoughts of tests and classes kind of scare me.
Mom is leaking.....
Gen
PeeS: Thanks for stopping by our blog! Poop happens.....
Looks like you gots lots of info! I just want to say I thinks it's great that you wants to give back after what you've been through and I thinks you would make a great therapy dog!
I wish I could but Mom says she's not sure I could pass obedience school. Hmph!
I love this idea for Walter! He is therapeutic to me, and I have never even 'met' him!! Looks like you got some good info here in the comments. :)
I think Walter would make an amazing therapy dog!!! Kids going into suregery would be a great fit after all he's been through. He would be a wonderful inspiration to all. I hope you can find a way to make it happen =)
Jess & Lilo
WOW - lots of good info from this bloggy community - maybe you have found a calling for Wally.
We think this is such a great idea! Go for it Walter!
A friend of Mom's was hospitalized for months following an auto accident several years ago. Therapy dogs came in to see the patients. You could feel the excitement on the evenings the dogs came in for the patients and the staff. The patients were so motivated by the dogs. Keep up the good work Walter. When you do your world tour we would love to meet you in Indy.
I think Waltew would be ideal as a thewapy dog when he' is up to it.
I don't know how to go about it , but I'm suwe you can find the infowmation on line .
I hope you do this. Waltew would be such a help to hooman pups
smoochie kisses
ASTA
Hey Heather and Walter, I would love for Maxwell to be a therapy dog too! Pugs are so lovable and bring smiles to everyones faces, I think Walter, especially after his recovery will be perfect for the job!!!
We are sending you our love and support!
jen and maxwell
I think that would be an excellent idea! I'm sure Wally could inspire kids and adults alike after all that he's gone through and over come.
Go Wally!
Wally, o' Wally, where art thou? I am assuming you and the momma are just very very busy... but I was thinking of you! Hope you're having a great week!!
I'm with Pearl, missing my Walter updates! Hope you're all just busy!
My Bandit is a therapy dog and was tested and certified through Therapy Dog International. No specific training but certain requirements to pass the test. You can read more about it at www.tdi-dog.org. I think pugs make excellent therapy dogs.....if we can keep them away from scampering at the food that may fall on the floor...lol
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