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Canines for Therapy

Spreading comfort, one visit at a time.

Bring Smiles, Calm Nerves & Create Moments of Connection

Canines for Therapy trains and certifies pet dogs and their owners to deliver canine-assisted therapy in schools, hospitals, libraries, and more. These volunteer teams offer comfort and joy where it’s needed most.

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What is a Therapy Dog?

What is a Therapy Dog?

Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs are personal pets trained to bring comfort to others—not to perform tasks for one individual. Therapy teams visit public places to support emotional well-being through gentle interaction, tail wags, and a calming presence. They do not have public access rights under the ADA and are not permitted in “no pets” housing.

Who Can Become a Therapy Team?

Who Can Become a Therapy Team?

If you and your dog are a calm, confident pair, you might be a great fit. All dogs must be at least one year old, know basic obedience, and love people. Handlers must be at least 18, complete training, and pass a background check.

Basic Requirements:


  • Dog must be at least 1 year old and in your care for 6+ months
  • AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification required
  • No raw diets or history of aggression
  • Buckle collar or cloth martingale + 6 ft leash (no retractables)
  • Up-to-date vaccinations and basic health screening
  • Dog and handler must not be registered with another therapy organization
  • Handler must pass a criminal background check

Where We Serve

Therapy certification courses are currently offered in:

  • Wilmington, NC
  • Raleigh-Durham, NC

Visits are typically held in:

  • Schools
  • Libraries
  • Hospitals
  • Group Homes
  • Senior Living Facilities
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Apply to Become a Certified Therapy Team

Apply to Become a Certified Therapy Team

Training takes place over 6–8 weeks, with one session per week. We’ll help you and your dog build the confidence and skills needed to visit communities and spread comfort together.

Apply Today

Already Certified?

Log Into Better Impact Renew Certification

Want a Therapy Visit at Your Event?

From classrooms to conferences, we’re happy to bring trained therapy teams to your location. Submit a request form, and our staff will follow up to confirm availability.

Request a Therapy Visit

One Veteran. One Dog.
No Barriers.

Join us in changing lives—through service, loyalty, and love. Together, we can ensure every Veteran who needs a service dog has a partner by their side.