Do pets inherently qualify as therapy animals?

Therapy animals require specialized certification beyond the usual qualifications of pet ownership, as they are subjected to a battery of temperament tests in unpredictable surroundings, such as hospitals or schools. A mere course in obedience training does not suffice for certification. A bona fide therapy animal shows unusual calmness in the face of medical alarms or sudden movement.

Certifications involve ʻcertifying examsʻ from recognized organizations, such as Pet Partners or Therapy Dogs International. Handlers and their animals must pass an exam in skills, handler communication, and be animal responsive. Teams must recertify every year to ensure that the standards for testing certification are still met. This is to ensure reliability in sessions.

Handlers undergo mandatory education on animal stress signals, as well as on infection control. They learn to recognize subtle cues that indicate discomfort, such as lip-smacking or ear position. Proper handling of animals prevents fatigue for the subjects who must endure long sessions. This also protects both the participants and the animals.

The distinction is important for an ethical implementation. Real therapy animals work limited hours and have mandatory rest days. They are evaluated regularly for their health. Pets don't have this structured support system. Certification ensures program integrity and the safety of participants, particularly when the animals come into contact with them.

Read the full article: Pet Therapy Benefits: A Comprehensive Guide