When is it held?

The Dogs as Therapy team visit a number of aged care residencies based in Canberra once a month on week days.  We also provide ad hoc visits to schools and community organisations on request.

How do I join?

For more information on requirements or to register your interest in becoming part of the Dogs as Therapy team, please email the club's office.

What is Dogs as Therapy?

It's a well-known fact that dogs bring joy to people's lives.  The positive benefits of dogs as therapy are well documented. However, not everyone has the opportunity to access their own furry friend. The CDC Dogs as Therapy team is a group of volunteers, that together with their pooches, visit a number of residential aged care facilities, school and community groups across the ACT, bringing affection, comfort and happiness in the form of a wet nose. Our Therapy dogs provide a warm interaction intended to improve the mental, emotional, social and physical health of the groups we visit.

Is my dog suitable?

Before joining the club’s Dogs as Therapy program dogs are assessed for their suitability.
 
To participate in the program, dogs must possess the right temperament and be over 12 months of age. Dogs need to be able to cope with ‘out of the ordinary’ sounds and noises, sudden movements and equipment such as walkers, motorised scooters and wheelchairs. The dogs must be comfortable and enjoy meeting and greeting people. As well, because we work in teams dogs must be happy to work with and be in the company of other dogs.
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