Marlina Velasco-Barker joins Suzanne to talk about therapy dog training. Washington Therapy Dogs is the Western Washington headquarters of Pet Partners. Formerly a research organization, Pet Partners grew to become a place to register and evaluate trainers, and collaborate with them to connect with other pet teams.

To register a therapy dog, they must be at least a year old. There are several requirements. Then they should be given the basic foundational training that comes with being certified as a canine good citizen. Then therapy dog training helps desensitize them from distractions, be familiarized being around walkers, wheelchairs, and sudden, random events and loud noises. If you have a good relationship and rapport with your dog, consider looking into dog therapy.

Visit Washington Therapy Dogs to learn about the state organization, or Pet Partners for national therapy dog information. You can also contact Suzanne or visit their Facebook group.

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