Imagine a moment of calm washing over you, a smile spreading across your face, and a feeling of connection filling your heart. That's the gift therapy dogs offer. They are more than just companions; they are healers, bringing comfort and joy to those in need.

Experience Emotional Well-being:

• Stress Relief: Feel the weight of stress melt away in the presence of a gentle, loving dog.
• Mood Elevation: Experience a surge of joy and positivity, lifting your spirits and brightening your day.
• Combatting Loneliness: Find solace and connection, banishing feelings of isolation.
• Anxiety and Depression Relief: Discover a sense of peace and calm, easing anxiety and depression.

Enhance Physical and Cognitive Health:

• Lowered Blood Pressure: Experience the calming effect of a therapy dog, leading to healthier blood pressure.
• Cognitive Stimulation: Engage in meaningful interactions, promoting cognitive health and mental clarity.

The warmth of a gentle paw, the comfort of a soft cuddle, and the joy of a wagging tail. That's the magic of therapy dogs. They are beacons of hope and comfort, bringing smiles and solace to those who need it most.

Therapy dogs and their dedicated owners volunteer their time, visiting hospitals, living centers, schools, disaster sites, workplaces, and more. They offer a moment of connection, a sense of calm, and a reminder of the unconditional love that dogs provide.

As the American Kennel Club beautifully states, therapy dogs and their owners:

'Work together as a team to improve the lives of other people. From working with a child who is learning to read to visiting a senior in assisted living, therapy dogs bring joy and comfort to everyone who engages with them.'

They are not just dogs; they are ambassadors of compassion, transforming moments of loneliness, stress, or sadness into moments of connection and joy.

Become a Beacon of Comfort: The Duncan School's Therapy Dog Certification Program

Imagine sharing the unconditional love of your dog with those who need it most. Becoming a certified therapy dog team is a deeply rewarding journey, requiring dedication, training, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.

At The Duncan School, we understand the importance of professionalism and expertise in therapy dog work. Our program is designed to equip you and your dog with the skills and knowledge needed to become a compassionate and effective therapy team.

Our Comprehensive Program Includes:

• Foundational to Certification-Ready Obedience: Mastering essential commands and achieving STAR Puppy (if applicable), Canine Good Citizen, Canine Good Citizen Advanced, and Canine Good Citizen Urban certifications.
• Decoding Canine Communication: Mastering the art of reading your dog's body language.
• Environmental Neutrality: Ensuring your dog remains calm and focused in any setting.
• Expert Guidance on Gear and Tools: Learning to use appropriate training tools and maintain a professional working image.
• Advocacy and Ethical Standards: Learning to advocate for your dog and understanding ethical guidelines for therapy work.
• Proper Introductions and Public Etiquette: Mastering social interactions and navigating public spaces.
• Pet Partners Certification: Becoming a nationally recognized therapy dog team through Pet Partners.

Program Details:

• Puppy's Minimum Starting Age: 3 Months.
• Minimum Certifying Age: 12 Months.
• Handler Minimum Age: 18 years old.
• Course Length: 12 Months
• Full Tuition: $3,800 ($500 to start, remaining balance divided into 11 monthly payments of $300).

• Important Note: An additional online training component through Pet Partners is required for certification. Please visit https://petpartners.org/volunteer/requirements for more information. Additional fees for registration and background checks are payable directly to Pet Partners.

Ready to share the healing power of your dog's love with your community? Your journey to becoming a certified therapy dog team begins now!