Our first visit gives us the opportunity to walk through the facility and to meet the staff and volunteers.  As we walk down the halls we have the opportunity to meet some of the residents.  Some of them make room for us as we walk by with big smiles on their faces, others stop in their tracks in amazement and wonder and want to meet and pet the dogs.  The quieter ones watch silently.

Some are still in their rooms so we ask permission before entering their space.  Most want one or both of the dogs to stay and visit for a while, but once in a while a resident will silently wave us away not wanting to be bothered.

Our second visit is always better than our first.  Everyone  has been told we are coming and anxiously wait for us to arrive.  We are greeted by big smiles by those in the lobby making us glad to be back.  Again, we walk down the halls, this time though, we stay a little longer, letting people gather around us waiting to pet our dogs.  We learn some of their names  as they open up while stroking the dog.  As they speak the dogs patiently sit or stand enjoying the experience and the attention.

We take our time, visiting the next group waiting in the hall, Again, we visit the residents who are in their rooms.  They enjoy the quiet visit and the individual attention and often talk more openly about their families, careers and highlights of their lives.

By the third visit we can see definate changes in everyone.  They are very happy and very anxious to see us, but now the visits have become more personal.  Some of them remember the names of the dogs, others give the dogs names.  Now, they eagerly but gently pet the dogs happy to see them again.  Being comfortable with the dogs makes them open up and they talk to us about their families, their past careers and some of the things they like to do.  We often hear about their children and pets and what they did during the week.

Some of the quiet, shy individuals venture forth to meet the dogs for the first time letting us guide their hands to the dog’s body for a pat.

Each visit makes the residents more comfortable with us and the dogs.  They have something to look forward to and something to talk about or think about after we leave.  It is not uncommon for individuals who have not spoken in months to start speaking quietly to the dogs while petting them. Others find the dogs amusing giving them a good laugh for the day. Some just like to look at them.  The people who do not have regular family visits especially look forward to our weekly visits.  Whether our residents are laughing, watching or actively participating, we know we are making a big difference in their lives and in the lives of those who care for them.

Of course you know your dog will have to obedient, but let’s talk about the types of people your dog will come in contact with on your outings and still keep them obedient! Let’s start with children, they are drawn to animals especially those children with special needs, children and dogs are my two favorite things! Do you think your dog is ready for that child that gets right in their face and stares at them right in the eyes from just inches way? Or hugs on them with all their might? I once had a child get right down in my dogs face, the teacher asked him, what he was doing? The child replied, “I just wanted to lick her tongue! ” the teacher asked the child to have seat and we then discussed how to properly greet the dogs!  So let’s not forget the noises that children make; from their beautiful laughter, the quiet sobs, the screams and total meltdowns, to the high pitched squeals of pure bliss! We have to get your dog ready for this so it’s very important to socialize, the younger your dog the better.

It’s so important to get your dog around older people, and think about what they are seeing from the dogs perspective. Let’s face it as we get older we tend to move slower and sometimes a little odd. We have to get our dogs used these types of movements, especially the slow hands that reach out to pet them or the ones that approach with a walker or cane, these actions can be very intimidating to a dog who has not had the experience.  We also can’t overlook the noises of our older friends can make, from deep voices to crying because they are lonely or in pain, and let’s not forget those with dementia or Alzheimer’s  have may have a meltdown of their own because they are simply confused.

Other factors to consider as we move on through the process Is the noises of the settings we are taking our dogs to. We have to get them ready for bells ringing at schools, the intercom systems, and the possibility of a fire drill during our visit to name a few. I once had a dog in a classroom and right in front of our window kids outside began throwing a frisbee…my dog saw this and hopped in the window seal to try and catch it! So we had to work on that, but the kids and teachers thought it was hilarious!   In hospitals and nursing home settings you have the wheel chairs, the beds/gurneys rolling down the halls, their intercom systems, dropping trays or bedpans and the quick coming and going of the staff.

So now that you have an idea of what “environmentally sound” means, you know we have alot  of ground to cover in our classes for certification. The staff at Highland Canine Training is dedicated to get you and your dog ready to give back to your community!

Our trainer’s at Highland Canine Training will advise our clients/volunteers who would like to work a therapy dog to choose a breed that best fits their living situation and the amount of activity in their life.  For instance, border collies, Jack Russell’s, and Boxers are very intelligent dogs with lots and lots of energy.  If you live in an apartment, or a house with a small yard, and/or have health issues that prevent moderate exercise than these types of breeds would not be a good fit to begin your therapy dog training.  These are just a few examples of certain breeds that demand physical excursion in order to maintain the dogs healthy mental stimulation and well as preventing bad behavior often times from sheer boredom.

Socialization is key for training a therapy dog.  Making sure that they are given plenty of opportunities to interact and socialize with a variety of people is critical.  Therapy dogs will be exposed to different environments and situations and must exhibit the proper temperament.  Therapy dogs need to have strong nerves and be capable of bouncing back quickly from unusual or difficult situations.  Through heavy socialization early on in life, many behavioral problems such as aggression or phobias can be stopped before they ever develop.  This is important as therapy dogs cannot be afraid of or act aggressively toward the people they are trained to help.

When selecting a potential therapy dog, conduct a series of tests to determine their suitability.  For example, test the dog’s reaction to various noise creating objects or situations.  Throwing a metal bowl on the ground, turning on a drill, a radio turned up high, or other loud noises should not cause the dog to fall apart.  The dog may startle, but it should bounce back and not become so terrified that it runs away and refuses to return.  Therapy dogs are often in facilities where there may be loud noises and lots of activity going on around them, so it is important that they can handle these situations.  It is also important to look at how the dog reacts to handling.  The dog should allow you to touch it on the ears, tail, stomach, paws, face, and any other location on their body.  Additionally, the dog should allow you to open its mouth and check its teeth.  The dog should be able to handle all of this, as it will be in situations where it is frequently handled by others. Another factor to test is how easy it is to bait the dog into a sit or a down.  The dog should be willing to learn and be motivated by treats, toys, or attention to perform this.  Therapy dogs must have obedience training before they can go into public facilities such as hospitals or nursing homes, so it is important to know how easy it will be to teach them basic obedience.

Training therapy dogs is a rewarding endeavor. However, the process can be disappointing if the right dog is not chosen first.  If you have questions concerning selecting a therapy dog feel free to call Lisa Scobel at 504-858-5284 or email her at lscobel@highlandcanine.com

Many places that you may visit will want to see vaccination records.  Go ahead and get a copy made to take with you on all your visits.  You may also want to bring a certificate verifying that your dog is a certified therapy dog.  Put these documents in a folder to keep them in good condition.  You will also want to have your vest or bandana that identifies your dog as a certified therapy dog.

Your backpack should also include a water bowl and water bottle.  Sometimes, the places you visit may be rather warm.  Make sure you take water with you so if your dog starts to pant you can supply them with the water they need.  Sometimes our dogs may become stressed during a visit.  If you notice your dog exhibiting signs of stress take them outside for a short break before their tension escalates.  Give them some water, and play a fun game with them.  Bring a stuffed animal or a rope to play tug with.  Play whatever game your dog absolutely loves to play.  You want to take their mind off of whatever was stressing them out.  Once your dog has calmed down you can go back inside again.  Remember, it is okay to take breaks.  Be your dog’s advocate and do what is best for them.

You should also bring some treats with you.  You can use them to perform tricks with your dog.  This can be a great way to make a positive and memorable impact with the facility you are visiting.  You can also use treats to create positive associations for your dog with the places and people they are visiting.  You should also make sure to have poop bags.  Never leave your dog’s mess outside of the place you are visiting.  Make sure to always clean up after your dog.

You should also bring a drool rag or maybe even a damp cloth in a plastic bag.  Some breeds are more prone to drooling than others.  You will want to be able to clean up any mess your dog leaves from drooling and be able to wipe their face down.  You should also bring an extra leash just in case something happens to yours.

Your backpack can have whatever you feel you may need during a visit.  Just make sure to carry the essentials with you every time you go on a visit.  Customize your bag to suit your dog’s individual needs.  Bring whatever you feel may be beneficial to your visit.

Find out more information about therapy dog programs in the Baton Rouge – New Orleans, LA area by contacting Lisa Scobel at 504.858.5284 or emailing her at lscobel@highlandcanine.com.  Lisa is a trainer and evaluator for The Therapy Dog Club.