Triple Crown Pawsitivity

Our Goal for 2025 is to start a Therapy Dog training program with being able to get certified after the training to become a Therapy Dog team!!

We will need donations to start this process. Training materials, insurance coverage, supplies office materials, cap & gowns for dog graduates, testing supplies, etc.

****Thank you for your interest in joining Triple Crown Pawsitivity Dog Therapy

Before you can become certified, you must apply.

This application will require you to provide the following:

Information on both handler and dog

A photo of dog and handler

Your dog’s most recent vet records

Animal Health Screening form completed by your veterinarian

Your dog’s CGC certification

Background check authorization

Registration and payment information

Program Requirements

The ideal candidate for Triple Crown Pawsitivity program will meet the following requirements:

Dog must be at least one year of age and have been owned by handler for at least 6 months

Dog must have their AKC Canine Good Citizen certification and know basic obedience – if your dog is not currently certified we can provide a judge to do that cost is $25 cash

Dog must pass a basic health screening and be up to date on vaccinations

Dog cannot have been trained to be aggressive or encouraged to bite

New buckle collars, cloth martingale collars, or head harnesser are the only equipment allowed. a 6 foot leash is required – no retractable leashes may be used

Handler must complete a criminal background check

Purchasing a vest upon completing certification

Volunteer training materials for pet therapy teams include information on basic dog behavior, body language interpretation, appropriate responses to different situations in a facility, safety protocols, infection control, patient confidentiality, communication with staff, and the specific guidelines of the pet therapy organization they are registering with, often including detailed practice scenarios and evaluation criteria for certification. 

Pet therapy volunteer training materials:

· Animal behavior basics:

· Understanding canine body language (tail position, ears, posture) 

· Recognizing signs of stress or discomfort in dogs 

· How to manage distractions and maintain control in various environments 

· Safety protocols:

· Proper leash handling and control techniques 

· Infection control procedures (hand hygiene, vaccination records) 

· Emergency response plan in case of incidents 

· Patient interaction guidelines:

· Respecting patient boundaries and privacy 

· Appropriate interaction methods based on patient needs (e.g., gentle petting, calm presence) 

· Recognizing when to discontinue interaction with a patient 

· Communication with facility staff:

· Reporting concerns or changes in patient behavior to medical professionals 

· Coordinating visit schedules and expectations with facility staff 

· Specific facility procedures:

· Understanding the layout of the facility and designated visiting areas 

· Proper attire and identification for volunteers 

· Ethical considerations:

· Maintaining confidentiality of patient information 

· Professional conduct and appropriate attire 

Where to find pet therapy volunteer training materials:

· Pet Therapy Organizations:

Most organizations like Pet Partners, Therapy Dogs International, and AKC Therapy Dog Program offer comprehensive training manuals, online courses, and in-person workshops for potential volunteer teams. 

· Facility Specific Training:

Some healthcare facilities may have their own pet therapy training modules tailored to their environment and patient population. 

Important aspects of pet therapy volunteer training:

• Hands-on practice: Opportunities to practice skills in a controlled setting with simulated scenarios 
• Evaluation process: A structured assessment to ensure the team meets the required standards for certification 
• Ongoing education: Regular      updates and refresher courses to maintain competency 

PROSPECTIVE MEMBER GUIDE

We are so pleased you have interest in becoming a therapy dog team with Triple Crown Pawsitivity (TCP).

TCP wants to become an American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized therapy dog non-profit organization led by compassionate volunteers who use their canine companions to provide heartwarming visits in support of local community organizations. We are a 100% volunteer organization; no one is paid a penny!

We hope you and your pup will join us on this rewarding journey! Please find below more information about TCP’s testing and membership requirements and how to get started!

Canine Requirements

● Minimum of one (1) year old

● Up-to-date on all vaccines, healthy, and free of injury

* Have passed their Canine Good Citizen Test

● Possess basic obedience skills:

o Sit calmly and be touched

o Listen and obey commands from handler

o Walk on a leash without excessive pulling

● Well-groomed, free of matting and odor

● Fully house trained

● Enjoy meeting and interacting with people

● Must NOT:

o Excessively lick or jump on people

o Growl or excessively bark at other dogs or people

o Have history of aggression or biting (if there is a history, please explain)

Handler Requirements:

● Minimum of 18 years of age

o TCP permits junior handlers ages 16 -17, if accompanied by an approved TCP adult

● Maintain control of canine at all times (the evaluation is as much about the

handler as the canine)

● No felony records

● Be the primary owner or handler of the canine companion

o The handler/owner who tests with the canine is the only person permitted to conduct visits

   on behalf of TCP.

  o Exceptions may apply on a case-by-case basis with written TCP Board approval

● Must provide canine’s vaccination records by a licensed veterinarian

● Must pass the IPP handlers’ written (open book) exam and execute liability

waiver prior to team evaluation

Other

● Electronic collars, prong collars, and retractable leashes are NOT permitted.

● While treats may be permitted while conducting visits as an active TCP member, treats

are NOT allowed during the team evaluation or during group events.