Alliance of Therapy Dogs

We Share Smiles and Joy

At Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) we provide testing, certification, registration, support, and insurance for members who volunteer with their dogs in animal-assisted activities. Our objective is to form a network of caring individuals and their special dogs who are willing to share smiles and joy with people, young and old alike.

Request a Visit

If your facility wants therapy dog visits or to begin a program, ATD can help.

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Become a Member

Join ATD and share your 4-legged friend to spread smiles and joy.

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Become a Tester / Observer

Learn if you are eligible to become a volunteer Tester/Observer for ATD.

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About Us

Celebrating over 35 Years of Sharing Smiles and Joy Nationwide

ATD provides testing, certification, registration, support, and insurance for Members who volunteer with dogs to visit hospitals, special needs centers, schools, nursing homes, and other facilities. We’re a network of caring volunteers who are willing to share our special canines to bring smiles and joy to people, young and old alike.

Whether you and your dog are looking to become a certified therapy team or your facility would like to start a therapy dog program, ATD is your #1 choice for pet therapy.

Donations

Support Alliance of Therapy Dogs

Unlike many organizations, we don’t focus heavily on fundraising appeals—our Member dues cover operations. Donations we receive go directly toward enhancing our programs, funding $20,000 in annual scholarships, and supporting volunteer education. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference and helps us continue our mission of spreading smiles and joy—always free of charge—to those who need it most.

Dog Owners

How Do I Become a Member?

Ready to become a therapy dog owner? Just follow these five steps to join Alliance of Therapy Dogs and start making a difference together!

Step 1: Background Check

A background check will be required for all prospective members prior to being tested.

Step 2: Download & Complete Paperwork

Download, review and complete your paperwork.

Step 3: Find a Volunteer Tester/Observer

You will have a Handling Assessment and 3-4 supervised Observations.

Step 4: Paperwork & Fee

Once you have passed the test, you will hand in your completed paperwork and Member fees.

Step 5: Schedule Your Visit!

After ATD accepts you as a Member, you and your therapy dog are ready to share smiles & joy!

Ready? Get Started today!

Join the Pack

3 Ways to Get Involved with ATD

There are several meaningful ways to get involved with ATD—whether you’re just starting out, ready to mentor others, or looking to lead at a higher level.

Become a Member

Complete 5 simple steps to join Alliance of Therapy Dogs and start making a difference with your dog.

Apply to be a Tester/Observer

After joining with a dog, completing one renewal and logging at least 12 visits you can apply to help assess, observe and mentor new therapy dog teams to help grow your community of therapy dog teams.

Apply to Lead as a Board Member

Members that are approved to be Tester/Observers, can apply to take their commitment further by serving on the ATD Board of Directors. Contact us to learn more.

Testimonial

Pawrents Testimonial

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Dave Beech

Pawrents

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Devina Mueller

Pawrents

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Xavier Mcfarla

Pawrents

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Lien Fontaine

Pawrents

Calling all members

Looking to be more involved?

Our volunteer Tester/Observers serve as role models for ATD. If you’d like to help others experience the same fulfillment you feel during pet therapy visits, consider becoming an ATD Tester/Observer today!