REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION WITH TDI

STEP 1

You (handler) and your dog(s) must pass the TDI EVALUATION FOR SUITABILITY TO BECOME A POTENTIAL THERAPY DOG. The test will also include the use of some type of service equipment (wheelchairs, crutches or other types of equipment which might be used in a hospital setting). The test must be conducted by a TDI CERTIFIED EVALUATOR. To find a TDI Evaluator in your area, please refer to the "Upcoming TDI Tests" area of the website, or request an evaluator list from the TDI Office. Our Evaluators will follow the AKC's and TDI's guidelines for testing.

- Dogs must be a minimum of one year-old to be tested.

- The dog must be healthy.

- Handler must be of good character

- There is NO minimum age for handlers, but handlers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult on visitations and the Registration form must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Note: Potential applicants are not required to take any therapy dog classes, TDI does not conduct or sanction these classes.

STEP 2

TDI Registrations must be submitted with TDI's Annual Health Records form (also supplied by your Evaluator) which includes the following requirements:

1) Mandatory Rabies (1 OR 3 YEAR - MUST BE GIVEN BY A VETERINARIAN)
2) An initial series of core Distemper Vaccinations
3) An initial series of core Hepatitis Vaccinations
4) An initial series of core Parvovirus Vaccinations
5) Annual Check-up attested to by your Veterinarian with the statement included on our Health Records form that the dog is physically and mentally healthy and free of contagious disease.
6) A negative Fecal Exam must have been done within the past year
7) A negative Heartworm test must have been done within the past year unless there is no heartworm present in the area or if the dog is on preventative medication.
Note: If vaccines are given by someone other than a Veterinarian, a special self-vaccination form will be provided.

STEP 3

Please send the following to:
Therapy Dogs International, Inc.
Attn: New Registrations
88 Bartley Road
Flanders, NJ 07836

1) TDI's Blue Application for Registration with current year printed on top, which must be signed by your Evaluator, and submitted within 3 months of testing. (You will receive this form from your evaluator after you complete the TDI test)

2) TDI's Annual Health Record form. (Completed and signed by your Vet)

3) One Photo of your dog, with your dog’s head clearly showing, suitable for scanning.

4) Current registration fee of $35.00 for one handler and one dog. Each additional dog is $5.00. (Please see Fee Schedule on page two of TDI's blue registration form.)

LIMITED REGISTRATION

If there are no Evaluators in your State or within 4 hours driving distance, you may apply for Limited Registration by sending your request with an Administration fee of $5.00 to TDI along with the following:

1) A copy of your AKC-CGC test form or Certificate for your dog which must be within 3 months if your application and a letter from the CGC evaluator - who must be a licensed AKC Obedience judge - attesting to the absolute mental soundness of your dog. We will not accept evaluations from a person who is only a CGC evaluator.

2. A letter of recommendation from an Animal Health Care Professional (Veterinarian)

3. Letters of recommendation from any institutions you are planning to visit. Letters should be on their letterhead and must include a statement that they would welcome visitations from you and your dog.

TDI will provide you will a signed Registration form for completion. Return the completed Registration form to TDI, and perform step 3 (See above)

For additional information and details on the AKC’s CGC Test call or write:

The American Kennel Club
Attn.: CGC
5580 Centerview Drive, Suite 200
Raleigh, NC 27606
Phone: (919) 233-9780