The Therapy Dogs continue that tradition with on going training seminars and information sessions for their members at the Branch and Provincial levels. The Branch training consists of one on one training during orientations, training seminars on various topics that relate to the Therapy Dog programme or subjects of interest. The Therapy Dog members and their dogs participate in many activities as part of our education programme for the public. We have displays set up in local shopping malls to promote our programme, as well as attending events such as the Hamilton and Stoney Creek Santa Claus parades, Ancaster Heritage Day parade, Dundas Cactus Festival parade and Open House at our St. John Ambulance training centre. We have also been asked to participate in a six month study with our Therapy Dogs at one of our rehabilitation centres.
Great care is taken in the selection of the dogs.
All dogs are tested for temperament and must be annually certified by their Veterinarians as being up to date on all inoculations and in good general health. It is a requsite of the programme that all dogs must be clean and thoroughly groomed before each vist. The Therapy Dog and its owner are covered by the same extensive insurance coverage that St. John Ambulance provides for all its members. Many theories exist regarding the bond of human and dog. Everyday as they go about their work, the Therapy Dogs add to the mystery.