Setting up a therapy dog program starts with the dog, but it doesn’t end there. From planning and preparation to training and everyday operations, there are important considerations that help schools and community organizations create programs suited to their needs.
4 Pawz Strong is a nonprofit organization that helps schools, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations develop therapy dog programs. Drawing on our experience working with organizations across the country, we offer guidance and support throughout different stages of program development.
Helping You Build and Maintain a Therapy Dog Program
Organizations come to this with different goals, responsibilities, and environments. Some are exploring therapy dogs for the first time, while others are looking for help with an existing program.
4 Pawz Strong works with organizations to help them understand the decisions involved, prepare their people and dogs, and consider how therapy dogs can become part of their everyday activities. Explore the areas where our experience and guidance can help.
Starting a Therapy Dog Program: Getting started means understanding your organization’s needs, preparing for the responsibilities involved, and considering available resources. See what goes into establishing a therapy dog program and how 4 Pawz Strong can help you decide where to begin. Learn more…
Dog Selection, Matching & Placement: Finding the right therapy dog means considering temperament, personality, and the environment where it will work. Find out how 4 Pawz Strong helps organizations identify suitable dogs and prepare for placement. Learn more…
Therapy Dog Training & Preparation: Therapy dogs need training, socialization, and appropriate care before entering their new environments. Discover how 4 Pawz Strong works with training and veterinary partners to help prepare dogs for their roles. Learn more…
Handler Training & Education: Handlers are responsible for guiding interactions, maintaining routines, and caring for their therapy dogs. Explore how 4 Pawz Strong helps prepare handlers for the responsibilities of working with a therapy dog. Learn more…
School & Organizational Program Implementation: Introducing a therapy dog requires preparation, communication, and routines that work within the organization. Read about how 4 Pawz Strong helps schools and organizations consider the practical steps involved in bringing a therapy dog into their daily activities. Learn more…
Ongoing Program Support & Development: As therapy dog programs become established, organizations may encounter changing needs, new opportunities, or unexpected challenges. Understand how 4 Pawz Strong can share experience and guidance as programs continue to develop. Learn more…
Begin With a Conversation
If you’re considering your first therapy dog or looking for guidance with an established program, 4 Pawz Strong can help you weigh your options.
Contact us to tell us about your organization and what you’re hoping to accomplish.
