How Do I Join?

    Please start by reviewing the Therapy Dog Job Description to make sure that your canine is suitable for the job.  If you aren't sure how your dog will behave, that's okay.  You can discuss your concerns with our Group Leaders and together determine if your dog should give therapy work a try.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR A THERAPY DOG   

1. One year of age or over.

2. Healthy and well-mannered.

3. Enjoys human contact.

4. Must be able to withstand loud noises and distractions.

5. Must be under the handler's control and know some obedience.

6. Must pass a series of tests which include encounters with wheel chairs, walkers and canes.

7. Must be stable with petting all over them.

8. Aggression of any type is not acceptable during a Therapy Dog visit.




           Steps to become a Therapy Dogs Inc. and Paws with Patience member.

Contact Joyce Papciak, President Paws with Patience.   610-282-4465

1. Make an appointment to observe a visit without your dog.  This will give you opportunity to observe what we do and to ask questions.  Schedule your next visit with a TDInc. tester to bring your dog.  On this visit, bring a copy of your current snot record, have the dog on a 4 foot lead.  Some dogs are nervous (handlers too).  Allow the dog time to watch what is expected.
2. Stay with your tester on this visit.  We will give you tips and guidance through the visit.  Make an appointment for your second "dog" visit.
3. This visit will include testing with wheelchairs, walkers and canes.  Make sure to ask questions as you go along. Make an appointment for your dog's third observation.  Remember, you are tested as a team so you are just as important as your furry friend.  If you need further observations, your tester will inform you at this visit.  The cost to join TDInc. is $20.00 per year.  The cost to join Paws with Patience is $5.00 per year.

The PAL (Pet Assisted Learning) program is open to certified dogs only.  Talk with your tester about the procedure to go to the schools and libraries.

Enjoy the visits; it is a very rewarding thing to bring some smiles to some needy people.