Therapy Dog Training, Part I

Luc has two speeds: on and off. 

Luc and I had our first Therapy Dog training class.  There was a change of instructors and class time because the original instructor had a family emergency and returned to Dallas.  Originally, I was told Luc would need to pass the Canine Good Citizen test in the first class or drop out if he failed.  However, the new instructor has changed the test requirement until the third class.  She is taking the first three classes of the six-week course to bring all the dogs up to passing the Canine Good Citizen test.  We'll spend the last three weeks of the course prepping for a dog therapy certification. 

There are several dog therapy accreditation associations which have their own standards and tests.  One such association is Therapy Dogs International. Another organization is the Penny's from Heaven Foundation which centers on wounded soldiers but also works with abused children, hospice patients, court houses, and etc.  I'll probably seek accreditation from these two.  There is at least one more association around the Austin area but I did not catch the name. 

Luc did pretty good overall for Luc.  The other dogs would not have passed a Canine Good Citizens test either. We all have a lot of work to do before next week's class.  His worst fault is his curiosity's about other dogs.  I was pulled several times towards one dog in particular.  However, the trainer told me how to get him under control.  It is going to take a lot of work.  lol  Luc is a very social dog in every way, be it dogs or people. 

I'm pretty excited about the prospect of Luc becoming certified as a therapy dog.  I am very interested in the Penny's from Heaven group; but, no doubt, Therapy Dogs International is equally interesting.  I'll get more literature on the various association as the class progresses.  My schedule is cleared for the next 6 weeks so I can concentrate on his training.  I'll keep you updated on how the training, Luc, and the class goes.  While I took my camera, I did not take any photos because I needed to pay attention but plan to get some class photos.   

Until next time, God bless.