Animal Assisted Therapy Dog Temperament Testing

Mar 17, 2013 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, 5666 E. State St., Rockford, Ill.

OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center is recruiting social, well-mannered, predictable dogs for its Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) program. Dogs that pass temperament testing must attend a mandatory training program held Friday through Sunday, May 3-5, through Dog Builders and Paws 4 Therapy. Dogs that successfully complete the program will be registered with a therapy dog organization.

Requirements for therapy dogs:
• Must be at least one year old
• Demonstrate proficiency in basic obedience
• Be up-to-date on inoculations (including rabies, distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, par influenza, Bordetella and corona virus)
• Must have lived with handlers for a minimum of six months
• Must be clean with no signs of fleas, ticks or dermatitis
• Have proof of annual heartworm test

Once admitted to the program, dogs need to be on flea protection year-round. Dogs with allergies will not be permitted in the program. Dog handlers must be at least 18 years old, be dependable and prompt and have good communication skills.

Cost: There is a $20 fee for testing; the fee is refunded if your dog is not selected for the program.

More information: Theresa Geraci, BSN, RN, 815-227-2500.Registration for temperament testing is required.