The old saying, let sleeping dogs lie, is an important message to remember when it comes to therapy dog visits. There are various reasons your dog may be sleeping on a visit: they get comfortable while being pet and take a nap, they are tired and it is time to end the visit, or your dog is off the clock and resting while you are at work. In these scenarios, it is important that you are advocating for your dog by making sure they are not startled awake by someone you are visiting. This scenario has unfortunately led to accidents occurring both on volunteer visits and while Members have their dogs at work. Remember, if your dog bites or scratches a person or another dog, whether at an ATD visit or not, you are required to report the incident to Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) using the Incident Report Form found on the website.
Taking a Nap While Being Pet
It is not unusual for dogs to become relaxed enough to fall asleep while being pet. While your dog may be used to the repetitive petting motion in their sleep, it’s important that you stay very close to your dog and maintain control of their head while they are sleeping. Sudden movements or noises can startle your dog awake at any time and they can cause your dog to react without thinking. A great way to incorporate yourself into the visit while your dog is napping is to also pet your dog near their collar in case you need to control the situation quickly. It can be easy to become lax while your dog is sleeping, but it is our job to continue being proactive during this time.
Ending The Visit For Your Sleeping Dog
One way your dog may try telling you they are ready to head home is by falling asleep. If your dog is distancing themselves from those you are visiting and falling asleep, this is a sign your dog is done visiting and it is your responsibility to remove yourself from the visit. Take extra care to make sure no one approaches your dog as you prepare to leave. Waking your dog by calling to them and asking them to move away from those you are visiting is a great way to wake your dog gently. The facility should understand that your dog is no longer feeling the visit and help you leave the facility.
Resting Dogs Off The Clock
If you are an ATD Member who also takes your dog to work, it is very important to make sure you have a safe space for your dog to sleep throughout the day. You should always be the first person to get to your dog when they are sleeping. A locked door between your sleeping dog and anyone else is your safest option. Crate doors can be opened very quickly and signs on doors can be easily ignored. It only takes your dog being startled once for an accident to happen. Always make sure you wake your dog before allowing any interaction with students, patients, staff or employees. Understand that your dog may become possessive of their bed or crate. This can lead to incidents. Moving your dog away from their bed or crate before they are pet can help keep everyone safe on a visit.
Even if your dog is comfortable sleeping in different locations while on a therapy visit, it is important that you, the handler, stay alert and proactive. You should always have eyes on your dog during the visit and make sure you are the one who is waking your dog. Your dog should be aware that they are about to be handled before interacting with others. If an incident does occur, it is important that you report that incident to ATD so that we can investigate the incident and make sure everyone is OK. ATD wants therapy visits to be fun and safe for both you, your dog and those you visit.
