You and your dog have put in the work, training in new environments, mastering good manners, and learning to stay calm and controlled around people they want to visit. Now you’re ready to take the next step: becoming a certified therapy dog team! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the certification process with Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD).
ATD recently launched a brand-new website that is refreshed and easy-to-navigate. Go to www.therapydogs.com and click Join in the menu. Now you’re ready to start the ATD application process.
Step 1: Complete a Background Check Through Sterling Volunteers
To ensure all Members represent ATD with integrity and professionalism, every prospective Member (age 18 and older) must complete a background check through Sterling Volunteers. ATD does not accept background checks from other organizations, this helps us keep application processing times short so teams can begin visiting as soon as possible.
Once your background check is complete and you’re eligible to begin testing, you’ll receive an email from Sterling Volunteers (theadvocates@sterlingvolunteers.com).
Step 2: Download and Complete Your Paperwork
Next, print and complete the ATD Certification Test Packet, which includes your Health Verification Form. Your veterinarian must sign this form to confirm that your dog has:
- Received a physical exam within the past 12 months.
- A negative fecal test within the past 12 months.
- Current rabies vaccination (or titer results).
Once your Membership Application is filled out and your veterinarian has signed the Health Verification Form, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 3: Find a Volunteer Tester/Observer (T/O)
ATD is fortunate to have dedicated volunteer T/Os who guide new teams through the testing process. On the Join page of our website, enter your ZIP code to find a local T/O. Contact them using the listed phone number or email to schedule your Handling Assessment and 3-4 Observations.
Because T/Os volunteer their time, flexibility is important. Some facilities have specific testing hours, so be prepared to adjust your schedule as needed. You have 6 months from your Handling Assessment date to complete the certification process. If you do not hear from your local T/O within 10 business days, please contact the ATD Office (office@therapydogs.com) to let them know.
If you do not have a local T/O within 40 miles, ATD does have an Alternative Review Process. You can receive more information about this process from the ATD Office. Please email office@therapydogs.com with your zip code to confirm you do not have a local T/O and they will provide the Alternative Review Process information to you.
After you complete your Handling Assessment and 3-4 Observations with your local T/O, you are ready to move to Step 4.
Step 4: Submit Your Paperwork and Fees
After completing your tests and paperwork, submit your ATD Certification Test Packet and the appropriate fees (listed in the packet) to the ATD Office.
You can submit your materials in 1 of 3 ways:
- Email: Send to office@therapydogs.com (fastest option).
- Mail: Please send with a check or money order and make sure to keep a copy of your test packet for your records. You can find the address listed in the ATD Certification Test Packet.
- Fax: Available for convenience. You can find the fax number listed in the ATD Certification Test Packet.
If you email or fax your application, ATD will send you a secure payment link once it’s received.
Step 5: It’s Time to Visit!
Once your application is reviewed and approved by the ATD Office, you’ll receive your ATD New Member Packet by mail. Inside, you’ll find your Member Handbook, membership card, and your dog’s red heart tag, the symbol of an official ATD therapy dog team.
Before you begin visiting, review your Member Handbook to learn more about ATD’s Rules and Regulations. To remain a Member in good standing, each team must complete and log at least 1 in-person volunteer visit every 3 months.
Need Help Along the Way?
ATD’s small but dedicated Office Staff is happy to assist you!
Call: 307-432-0272
Email: office@therapydogs.com
Office hours are during standard Mountain Time business hours. Please allow 24-48 hours for a reply during the business week.
We look forward to welcoming you and your dog into the ATD family and helping you bring smiles and joy to those who need it most.
