therapy programs

Our programs are designed to ensure that you and your dog are ready to take the Therapy Dog Evaluation test at the end of the program. 

The following is the requirements for the therapy dog program through MCHA:

• Accepting approach, taking food and being pet by friendly strangers

• Being around and settled around neutral and well-behaved dogs

• Startle responses: dropping, knocking something over. Both visual and auditory. 

• Supervised Separation (Owner leaves dog with handler, assessing reaction.)

• Walking and interacting through crowds of people, such as approaching and petting.

• Reaction to Difficult Stimuli and Situations

  • Clumsy petting, hugging​

  • Someone in a wheelchair or walker

  • Someone running by yelling on the phone

  • Excited/fast approach

  • Someone is rough or grabby with dog

  • A stranger wants their dog to meet yours

  • Being approached by an open umbrella

  • And more!

• Obedience skills:

  • Sit on cue

  • Down on cue

  • Stay for 5-10' around normal and routine distractions

  • Leave it with both objects being offered and a bag of treats on the ground.

  • Wait on cue (at doorways)

  • Recall past a bag of treats

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Play & Train: Therapy Team

Available for dogs interested in MCHA Therapy Dog Program.

Play & Train Therapy Team is designed to help adolescent dogs prepare for a career as a therapy dog. This program focuses on the essential skills and emotional stability needed for working in various environments. This program is the perfect foundation for those looking to have their dog become a compassionate and reliable therapy dog.

What is included: 

• ​30 Days of Enrichment, Training, & Socialization ($2040 Value)

• 3 Private Lessons ($240 Value)

• Heather's Heroes Transitional Lead ($40 Value)

• Treat Pouch ($20 Value)

• ​MCHA Therapy Dog Evaluation ($80 value)

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Price: N/A

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Private Lessons: Therapy Team

Available for dogs who have completed a professional level of training or needing a refresher in preparation for the evaluation. 

Therapy Dog Private Lesson Package is a specialized training program designed to help your dog develop the skills necessary to become a therapy dog. Through one-on-one sessions, we’ll focus on building your dog’s confidence and socialization while reinforcing the essential behaviors required in therapy environments. Perfect for owners dedicated to preparing their dog for a rewarding role in therapeutic settings.

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What is included: 

• 5 Private Lessons

• Treat Pouch ($20 Value)

• ​MCHA Therapy Dog Evaluation ($80 value)

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Price: N/A​

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Group Class: Therapy Team

Available for dogs who have completed a professional level of training or needing a refresher in preparation for the evaluation. 

Therapy Dog Group Class is a supportive training environment, meeting once a week, where you and your dog can work alongside others on the path to becoming a therapy dog. Ideal for those who want to socialize their dog in a group atmosphere while progressing toward therapy dog certification. Each dog at the end of the program are able to take the evaluation at an additional cost with trainer approval.

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What is included: 

• 6 Weeks of Group Classes 

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Price: COMING SOON

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