The thought of using a dog for therapy became extremely popular in 1976 when Elaine Smith who worked as a registered nurse noticed
how patients reacted to the chaplain and his friendly golden retriever.
The patient's whole demeanor became relaxed and in some cases sped the rate of recovery. Elaine decided to start a small therapy dog institution and it blossomed into popularity. In recent years therapy dogs have begun helping children overcome emotional and speech issues.
Although an excellent idea, therapy dogs are not classified as service animals and are not afforded the same privileges.
They may not go into restaurants or hotels, there is much controversy about this issue.
An assistant or service dog may go anywhere because they assist and do things for their disabled companion. They are essential to the well-being of their owner.
In the U.S. the service dog is protected at the federal level under the Americans with Disabilities Act 1990. They undergo rigorous training and evaluation.
Therapy Dogs International does not accept service dogs for this reason. Unlike assistance dogs,therapy dogs do not actually do things for their person, They are there to provide an atmosphere of calmness and a sense of security.
The therapy dogs are asked to pass a test called the "Good Citizen test" provided by the American Kennel club. It is a ten step gold standard behavioral test.
After completing the classes and tests dog owners may put GCG in the suffix of their dog's name.
In many situations such as the fear of reading aloud,anxiety or shyness therapy dogs can be a comfort. Their presence can mean the difference between fear and self-confidence.
They can be utilized in many ways and I believe a way to communicate to others about compassion and kindness.
Last year therapy dogs provided relief to school children after they witnessed violence in their schools. It can be a means to ending bullying and self-hatred.
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