How to train your dog as a therapy dog​ in Perth

Train your dog as a therapy dog: The gentle presence of a well-trained dog can bring immense comfort, reduce stress, and spark joy. If you’ve ever watched your canine companion intuitively comfort someone and thought, “They’d be perfect for this,” you might be considering training your dog as a therapy dog. The demand for these four-legged volunteers in hospitals, aged care homes, and schools is growing in Perth. But how do you start this rewarding journey?

The first step is an honest assessment. Not every dog, regardless of how loved they are, is suited to therapy work. A successful therapy dog must have a rock-solid temperament. They must be inherently calm, confident, friendly with strangers, and unflappable around unexpected noises, medical equipment, and sudden movements. Breeds like Labradors, Golden Retrievers, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are common, but any breed or mix with the proper disposition can excel.

Foundation is Key: Obedience Training

Before you can think about therapy work, your dog must master basic obedience. This is non-negotiable. Your dog must reliably respond to commands like ‘sit’, ‘stay’, ‘down’, ‘come’, and ‘leave it’ amidst distractions. They must walk politely on a loose leash without pulling. Enrolling in a local Perth obedience club is an excellent way to build these essential skills in a controlled environment.

Seek Professional Guidance in WA

The certification path is best navigated with expert help. Look for accredited trainers in Western Australia who specialise in therapy dog preparation. Organisations like Therapy Dogs Australia or Lort Smith Animal Hospital (with links to WA) set the national standards. They assess teams (you and your dog) against rigorous criteria, ensuring safety for all involved. A qualified trainer will help you prove your dog’s skills, simulating real-world environments they will encounter.

The Certification Process

Once your dog’s skills are polished, you’ll undergo a formal assessment through a recognised body. This evaluates your dog’s temperament and obedience and your ability as a handler. Passing this assessment grants you insurance coverage for volunteer visits.

Training your dog as a therapy dog is a significant commitment, but the reward is unparalleled. The wagging tails—human and canine- make every hour of training worthwhile. You’re not just teaching commands but forging a partnership to bring light and comfort to your Perth community.

Check out the Dog Training Tips Perth Guide

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🩺 Your Local Vet in Port Kennedy

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