Gaining accreditation through the Delta Society for you and your dog to become a Delta Therapy Dogs Team is rewarding for you, your dog and the people you visit.
Assessments at held regularly in Sydney. See the Delta Society Australia website for detailed information, the assessment video and upcoming dates.
TO BECOME A THERAPY DOGS TEAM:
* You need to submit an EOI, providing basic information about you and your dog
* Suitable candidates will be invited for interview
* Reference and Police checks are undertaken
* You will be asked to see your dog's veterinarian for a health check
* Dogs must be over 18 months of age
* You will then be invited to attend an Assessment day. Your dog needs to have the requisite skills and temperament.
* If you and your dog meet all the criteria you will be invited to attend Volunteer Induction Training.
The skills assessment will include:
Controlled Walk; Accepting Friendly Stranger & Sitting Politely For Stroking; Held By A Stranger/Owner Out Of Sight; Take Food Gently; Reaction To Another Dog In Close Proximity;Staggering And Gesturing Individual; Angry Yelling; Crowded Or Patted In A Group; Being Bumped From Behind
SKILLS ASSESSMENT PREPARATION:
In order to pass the assessment you and your dog must be able to demonstrate good teamwork. eg
* a strong bond between guardian and dog - ie the dog is responsive to the guardians requests
* the ability of the guardian to read the dog's body language, ie to be aware of when the dog may be stressed or uncomfortable
* a well-socialised dog, that actively seeks out people
* a calm, stable personality that can handle the unexpected, such as loud noises, a patient yelling or rough, clumsy petting
* a dog that is under the guardian's control at all times, even in the face of distractions
We can help you prepare for the Assessment, whether it be polishing behaviours or starting from scratch.