Preparing Our Therapy Dogs for their working day

At Canine Comprehension, we understand the importance of ensuring that our therapy dogs are adequately prepared for their vital role in providing animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) in educational settings. Our commitment to excellence begins with the careful preparation of our canine companions, ensuring they are ready to offer support, comfort, and companionship to those in need. Here's a glimpse into how we get our therapy dogs ready for their important work:

Rest and Sleep: One of the foundational elements of preparing our therapy dogs for service is ensuring they get enough rest and sleep. Adequate rest helps them stay focused, engaged, and ready to interact with students meaningfully.

Proper Nutrition: Just like humans, dogs require proper nutrition to maintain energy and overall health. We provide our therapy dogs with nutritious meals to ensure they have the energy to perform their duties effectively.

Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for both humans and dogs alike. We always keep fresh water available for our therapy dogs to ensure they remain hydrated throughout their sessions.

Exercise and Stimulation: Regular and mental stimulation are essential for keeping our therapy dogs sharp and alert. We allow them to release energy and stay mentally stimulated through various activities.

Grooming and Health Check: Before each session, we carefully groom our therapy dogs and conduct a thorough health check to ensure they are in optimal condition for their work. This includes checking for any discomfort or health issues that may need attention.

Relaxation: Our therapy dogs need quiet moments to unwind and focus before their sessions. We provide them with opportunities to relax and recharge, helping them maintain a calm and composed demeanour during their interactions with students.

Necessary Supplies: Before each session, we make sure our therapy dogs are equipped with all the necessary supplies, including treats, toys, and other essentials that may aid in their interactions with students.

Toilet Breaks: We understand the importance of allowing our therapy dogs to take toilet breaks as needed, without distractions. This ensures their comfort and well-being throughout their sessions.

Transportation: Transportation is required to reach the session. Therefore, we plan comfortable car trips with items like our therapy dogs' favourite beds, toys, access to water, and travel breaks to ensure our therapy dogs arrive safely and stress-free.

Arrival Time: Finally, we arrive early to each session to allow our therapy dogs time to acclimate to their surroundings and prepare mentally for their essential work.

By following these comprehensive preparation steps, we ensure that our therapy dogs are ready to provide the highest support and companionship to those they serve. At Canine Comprehension, we uphold the highest standards of care for our therapy dogs, ensuring they positively impact the lives of students and educators alike.

If you would like to know more about the work our dogs and mentors do, go through our website.