DOGTORS University
Meet our sweet new poster pup, Aleaha Breslyn
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DOGTORS University provides the education. The Handler and the Pet train and work together as a Team.
The 8-week program is provided in 2-hour classes one night a week. DOGTORS University has 2 locations: The Masonic Community Healthcare in Springfield has classes starting in January, April and September. Classes are on Tuesday evenings, 7 - 9 PM. Ginghamsburg Church in Tipp City. Classes start in March & September and are held on Sundays, 5 -7 PM During the course, a few of the many topics covered are:
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Animal behavior & communication
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Your Pet's health
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How, Why & Where AAT works
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Patient Protection
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Working as a Team
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Infection Control
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AAT use with specific medical conditions and illnesses
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Working around other animals
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HIPAA
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Unlike obedience or agility training, Therapy dogs would be categorized more as 'working dogs', as they are teamed with a Handler for a specific job. In this case, they are medical dogs, or Dogtors. Both members of the Team have to do their part to make it to graduation.
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At the end of the course, there is a written test for the Handler. The final exam is the Team Assessment Test, or TAT. Here the Handler and Pet demonstrate obedience skills and are evaluated by their response to a multitude of situations and 'patients' under controlled conditions.
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Cost of the course is $75 with no annual fees. Additional Handlers with same pet would be $25 each.
Scholarships may be available from outside organizations. Students aged 10-17 are eligible with parent or guardian, and both will train and certify together, as that child will need supervised while working. Should you decide AAT just isn't for you or your pet by the end of the second class, you can receive a full refund. If it is determined that your pet is not going to be appropriate for AAT at any time during the course, you can receive a full refund as well.
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WHILE YOU ARE WAITING for the next class, there are things you can do to help yourself and you partner, especially dogs: Consider places like pet stores and dog parks in particular. Human and animal socialization is very helpful, however, avoid places like festivals, flea markets and other crowded areas where your dog could get stepped on. The most important you and your partner will need in AAT is trust between the two of you. Desensitize your partner, as needed, to noise, touching feet, and work on separation issues. The dog should be able to be left alone with a stranger without whinning or pulling. Treats should be taken gently, no jumping up on people, tolorance of other animals, work on pulling issues and break bad habits such as 'mouthing'.
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