Caring Canines Therapy Dog Club (CCTDC) is a non-profit organization.  Therefore, CCTDC registered dogs will not accept fees or compensation for therapy dog visits or for the personal financial gain of any member.

All dogs must be currently listed with Caring Canines Therapy Dog Club and handlers must wear their photo identification badge.

Handlers must have control over their dogs at all times.

All rules of the facility must be followed.

Do not interfere with the normal activity of the facility.

Handlers must check in with staff or supervisor when they visit.  Where relevant, ask if there are any residents you cannot visit.

If another team is visiting a person, please wait until the other team has moved away before you approach with your dog.

Handlers should avoid wearing perfumes/colognes.  Residents can be very sensitive to smells.

Be mindful that some people are afraid of or allergic to dogs.  Keep your dog close so that you do not surprise such people in hallways or rooms.

Always ask the resident’s permission before you visit with them or take your dog into their room.  Before entering a room, ask the resident if a therapy dog would be welcome.

Keep your dog close in order to avoid walkers, wheelchairs, canes and tubing.  A dog entangled in such equipment can do harm to the resident and itself.

Be aware of the resident’s physical condition so your dog will not be put into a position that could cause them harm.

Some residents are frail and may have brittle bones and sensitive skin.  Take care that you and your dog cause no injury.

Be aware of your surroundings and potential dangers.  Residents can grab collars, pinch skin, or squeeze feet/ears, etc., causing pain or discomfort for your dog.

When visiting a resident’s room, limit to one dog per room at a time.

If it is necessary to move a bed table, walker, phone, chair, etc. for your dog to be patted, always return items to their original place.

A handler must handle ONE dog at a time.  In other words, if you have two certified therapy dogs, you may only bring one in at a time.

Keep your dog’s nose off the floor.  One never knows what might be down there.

Be prepared with proper material to quickly clean up after your dog if it unexpectedly vomits, urinates, or defecates within the facility or on the grounds of the facility.

Respect residents’ confidentiality.  Do not discuss any personal or health information you may learn about someone you have visited.

Go with the residents’ needs in mind; be there to listen to them.  Often, asking if they have had pets is a good way to start a conversation.

Encourage residents, their family members and visitors, as well as facility staff, to pat your dog.  Many are dog lovers who miss their own pets and would benefit from touching the fur of a friendly dog.

Take the opportunity to educate interested observers about the value of therapy dogs to the emotional and physical health of residents.

Always wash hands, or use a hand sanitizer, before and after visits.  This is wise in order to prevent carrying something into, or out of, a facility.

Whether or not to let your dog accept treats is a personal choice.  However, please be VERY aware of how gentle your dog is when doing so.  If there is any chance that your dog might catch a finger with its teeth or grab the food in earnest, consider taking the treat from the resident to give to the dog yourself.

When making visits, please turn off your cell phone!  It is a distraction to being able to work with your dog safely and it is a common courtesy to the people we visit.

Remember that you are your dog’s advocate and observe its needs.  If your dog appears hot, tired, or otherwise stressed or uninterested, take your dog out of the situation and revisit at another time. 

Responsibilities of the Human Partner
Therapy dog teams work best when both the handler and the dog are supported and prepared.
As the human partner, you play a key role in creating safe, respectful, and meaningful
experiences for everyone involved.
 

Basic Eligibility Requirements
Criminal history: For the safety of those we serve, individuals with criminal convictions
are not eligible to participate.
Age: Handlers are typically 18 years or older. Minors may participate only when
accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
 

Dress Code and Appearance
Handlers are expected to present themselves in a clean, professional, and approachable way.
Clothing should be neat and appropriate – revealing or torn items (such as ripped jeans)
are not permitted
Closed-toe shoes are required in clinical settings to help prevent injury
A polished appearance helps maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all
Demonstrate Professionalism and Follow Guidelines
As a member of Caring Canines, you represent the program in every interaction.
Use calm, positive, and respectful handling techniques at all times
Follow all site-specific policies, including privacy and confidentiality requirements
Stay attentive, aware, and in control of your dog throughout each visit
Guide and Manage the Visit
You provide structure and support during each interaction.
Engage with individuals through conversation, empathy, and active listening
Monitor your dog’s behavior while maintaining control of the leash
Help guide the flow of the visit by sharing time, keeping interactions safe, and ending
visits at the right time

Advocate for Your Dog
Your dog depends on you to recognize and respond to their needs.

 Watch for signs of stress, fatigue, or discomfort and step in when needed
Guide gentle, appropriate interactions – never allow anyone to pressure your dog
Ensure your dog is clean, well-groomed, and meets all health requirements before visits
Interact Positively with People