CARING CANINES THERAPY DOG CLUB
GUIDELINE FOR DOGS

• A Therapy Dog must be at least one year old.

• Dog must be current with all vaccinations that are required by the State of Vermont. These vaccination records will be collected annually by CCTDC to be kept on file.

• Dogs must have a physical exam and stool check within the last twelve months.

• Female dogs must not be in season when doing Therapy Dog work.

• Dogs that do not feel well (ie diarrhea, itchy ears or other signs of impending illness) should not participate in Therapy Dog work until well again.

• Dogs must be on leashes that are 4 feet long or less. Please note that‘ flexi leads’ and chain leashes are not acceptable.

• Dogs must NEVER be let off leash.

• Prong or pinch (choke) collars are not permitted.

• Dogs must be clean, well groomed and free of fleas; toenails should be short.

• Dogs must not be treated with oily flea treatment within one week of a visit. The residue could be transferred to a resident while petting.

• While Therapy Dog vests are not mandatory, we encourage all members to utilize them while on visits. It identifies your dog as a working Therapy Dog and not just a ‘pet’ visiting a facility.

• Dogs should never get on a bed, lap, etc. unless invited by the patient.

• Never let your dog ‘kiss’ a resident or wound

• Therapy Dog Teams must conduct themselves in a professional, orderly fashion. Do not allow you dog to play or roughhouse with other dogs while on therapy dog visits.