Standard Poodles as Therapy Dogs, Service Dogs or Emotional Support Dogs

The world of service dogs is constantly evolving, with advances not only in the training techniques but also in the scope and understanding of the roles these dogs fulfill. Service dogs, therapy dogs, and other assistance animals have become more widely recognized, with increasing awareness of their impact on human health and well-being. As the demand for these exceptional animals grows, so too does the need for comprehensive guidelines and resources to support veterinary professionals in providing optimal care for working and assistance dogs.

To help navigate these developments, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) published the 2021 AAHA Working, Assistance, and Therapy Dog Guidelines. These guidelines offer veterinarians and handlers alike an invaluable resource for understanding best practices in the care, training, and health needs of working dogs, from initial health screenings to end-of-life care. Alongside the guidelines, the Working Dog Toolkit provides practical tools for easy implementation, ensuring a high standard of care tailored to the unique needs of these animals.

For those inspired to make a difference in their community, there are several avenues to explore if you're interested in training your pet to become a therapy animal. Therapy animals, which include dogs and even cats, bring comfort and companionship to people in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and other settings. Two local therapy animal programs can guide aspiring handlers through this rewarding journey:

Paws-to-Share – Serving California, this organization welcomes dogs of all breeds and cats, opening the door for a diverse range of animals to make a positive impact. Whether you're located in a bustling city or a quieter region, Paws-to-Share offers a flexible program for pet owners looking to get involved.
4PawsOfLove – Based in San Diego, this program specializes in training Standard Poodles for therapy work. Known for their intelligence and gentle demeanor, Standard Poodles make excellent therapy animals, and this organization provides specialized training for these remarkable dogs.

Whether you're a pet owner interested in therapy work, a handler, or a veterinarian, there are countless ways to engage with this dynamic field. And for some visual inspiration, all the photos you see here feature our beloved dogs and pups we've bred, celebrating the bonds we share with these remarkable animals.

For more information on these guidelines and resources, visit AAHA's official page to access both the 2021 guidelines and the Working Dog Toolkit.