Description: This option is for anyone wanting to make therapy dog visits to facilities or in the community (as volunteers). It provides insurance for those visits, therapy dog identification, and full membership in TDV.

 

How to become a certified TDV therapy dog team: The entire process of certification involves these basic steps: being tested by a TDV tester, completing three evaluations at a facility with a TDV evaluator, filling out the proper applications, and paying a testing and membership fee.

Please bookmark this page so that you may easily refer back to it as you complete the steps and required paperwork during the certification process. Please note that your tester and/or evaluator may also provide you with additional instructions for each phase of the certification.

STEP 1: Request a Testing Appointment
     -  Fill out the online APPLICATION FOR TESTING (Click here)

     -  Pay the $20 testing fee on-line (Click here)

           (THESE MUST BE SUBMITTED ON THE SAME DAY) 

 

TDV will contact you by e-email to schedule an appointment once the above is completed. If you cannot use the online application method, please email: training@therapydogs.org.

 

STEP 2:  Prepare for your TEST
     -  Download, read, and fill out the forms in the Certification Packet (Click here)
     -  Review the test criteria to ensure compliance
     -  Bring these items to the test:  
           -  Printed copy of the Certification Packet 

           -  Proof of Rabies vaccination 

 

Your tester will communicate any other additional information needed for the test and/or directions to the testing location, by e-mail in advance of the test date.

 

STEP 3:  Prepare for your EVALUATIONS

          -  Review all policies and guidelines prior to your first evaluation  (Click here)

          - Have your dog clean and well-groomed

          - Bring a 4-foot leash

 

Your evaluator will communicate any other additional information needed for the evaluation and/or directions to the testing location, by e-mail in advance of your first evaluation. 

 

STEP 4:  Completing your membership 

 

After you have successfully completed a test and the evaluations, your evaluator will work with you to submit your final paperwork, along with the balance of your membership fee, to TDV.