Therapy Dogs vs. Service Dogs - Which One Are We?
At PAWS for Service, we only train therapy dogs. Many people use the terms “therapy dog” and “service dog” interchangeably, but there are major differences between the two.
Therapy Dogs do not have federally granted legal access to the types of public areas afforded to service dogs. A therapy dog and his handler/owner visit facilities such as hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, VA facilities and schools. A therapy dog is there to be petted and provide comfort and affection to individuals at various places that request a visit.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME A DOG THERAPY TEAM
Basic Qualifications
Our comprehensive program includes behavioral dog training with specialized skills to complement animal visitations. Our classes include simulated and actual visitation experiences with personalized attention to each team. Classes have been developed to improve the existing bond between owners and their dogs.
We hold evening classes during the spring and fall at University United Methodist Church.

Members must be at least 18 years old and be able to visit at least once a month.
Dogs must be at least 2 years old, current on all vaccinations and be able to demonstrate basic obedience skills such as:
Sit
Down
Come
Stay
Walk on loose leash
Dogs must be well socialized: they must be able to accept petting from multiple people and not be reactive to other dogs