Therapy Dog Program
Becoming a Certified Therapy Dog Team
The Ohana K9 Centre is proud to support handlers and their dogs on the journey to becoming certified Therapy Dog teams. Certification is a structured process designed to ensure that both dogs and handlers are well prepared, knowledgeable, and equipped to safely and confidently serve their communities.
To begin by providing veterinary verification of vaccinations and age. From there, dogs progress through a minimum of Levels 1–4 Therapy Dog Classes at Ohana K9 Centre, building the skills and temperament required for therapy work.
Handlers must also complete several essential education components, including:
Canine Health Canada CPR & Emergency First Aid
Advanced K9 Emergency First Aid
Standard First Aid & CPR
Mental Health First Aid or Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
These courses ensure handlers are fully prepared to respond to both canine and human needs in real-world therapy environments.
Additional steps include completion of the Therapy Dogs Canada Handler Course and written exam, a Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening, and a formal in-person Therapy Dogs Canada assessment. Proof of liability insurance is also required.
Once all requirements are met, teams receive a probationary certificate valid for one year. To maintain certification, teams must complete a minimum of six therapy visits per year and submit feedback assessments.
At the Ohana K9 Centre, we are committed to helping dedicated handlers gain the skills and confidence needed to make a positive impact through therapy dog work.
Upcoming classes for Level 2 start Saturday March - April 4 at 10:45am