Expert Guidance

Learn from experienced professionals in the field of therapy dog training.

Training Tips

Learn about the expectation to help train your dog to pass the practical examination.

Certification

Learn about the next steps to completing your certification, upon passing the handler course.

About the Course

Our Therapy Dogs Canada Handler Course is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills required to become a proficient therapy dog handler. Whether you're looking to start a career in animal-assisted therapy or enhance your existing skills, this course offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers everything from dog behavior to handling techniques. Join us and embark on a rewarding journey of helping others through the power of therapy dogs. Completion of the handler course is one of the components to full certification with Therapy Dogs Canada.   The fees associated with this course also include a virtual or in person evaluation of your dog within 1 year of completion of the handler course.  For in person evaluations you must travel to an evaluator at your own expense.  All first aid, criminal record documents and proof of insurance are required prior to practical evaluation.

Course Curriculum

7 Chapters · 37 Lessons

  1. 1

    Introduction to Therapy Dog Work

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Understanding Therapy Dogs

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      What is a Therapy Dog?

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Benefits of Therapy Dog Visits

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Types of Therapy Dog Visits

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

  2. 2

    Handler Responsibilities

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Your Role as a Handler

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Ethical Consideration

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Planning The Day

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Emotions Happen

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Self Care

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

  3. 3

    Dog Communication & Body Language

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Understanding Dog Communication is Important!

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Dog Communication

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

  4. 4

    Biosecurity & Gear

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Vaccinations

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Parasites

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Grooming

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Food & Treats

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Gear

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Accidents

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

  5. 5

    Training

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Promotional Video

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Training Approaches

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Bloom's Cognitive Taxonomy

    4. (Included in full purchase)

      Classical Conditioning

    5. (Included in full purchase)

      Operant Conditioning

    6. (Included in full purchase)

      Shaping vs. Free Shaping

    7. (Included in full purchase)

      Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

    8. (Included in full purchase)

      Principles of Dog Training

    9. (Included in full purchase)

      Pillars of Dog Training

    10. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

  6. 6

    Additional Training Considerations

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Deep Pressure Therapy

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Send Out

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

  7. 7

    Next Steps

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Preparing for your Test

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      Final Steps

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Quiz

Ready to Get Started?

Enroll now and begin your journey towards becoming a certified therapy dog handler.

$499.00

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