Therapy Dog Team Program
A Simple Way to Make a Lasting Impact
Supporting well being through Animal-Assisted Therapy our Therapy Dog Programme builds a recognised partnership between you and your dog. With our animal assisted education system, you and your canine can provide comfort for others (it's also great feeling for us and the dog!) Therapy dogs can be used in a wide range of facilities and environments
- Schools
- aged care homes
- Hospitals
- Counsellors
- Occupational Therapists
- Crisis Dogs
Our recognition process is simple, flexible, and built for everyday owners.
We provide help and certification for people and their dogs across Australia via our group classes in Melbourne and Virtual Meeting and videos.
We also offer the School Well Being Dogs Program - Check out Comfort Dogs in Schools
You and your dog will learn how to bring joy through safe visits and emotional support. We focus on positive behaviours and a calm temperament, so you feel confident in a wide range of settings.
Our training and certification pathway is for:
Counsellors, psychologists, and allied health professionals
School staff, teachers, and learning support officers
Clinicians and therapists in private practice or community care
Volunteers in hospitals, aged care, and health services
Retirees who want a purpose-driven way to connect
If you are unsure whether your puppy or older dog is ready, Start with our free checklist Is My Dog Suitable to work with animal assisted therapists?
Here is what you, your dog, and the participants will gain
Clear and supportive: We avoid confusing jargon or unnecessary dog training courses. You’ll receive friendly guidance that helps you succeed.
backed by assessors recognised by government and health organisations.
Trusted by schools, NDIS providers, and therapy dogs Australia-wide
Specialised knowledge in therapy dog roles and human-canine therapy
a relaxed, person-centred approach with real feedback.
No hidden costs, extra training sessions are available if needed
By the end, you and your certified therapy dog will be ready for real-world facility visits.
Paws For Support, Therapy Dog Course
You’ll have access to everything needed for success.
Suitability checklist and preparation guide
Step-by-step team assessment (online or in person)
Certificate and optional ID badge for your dog and handler
Resources for schools, clinics, and community settings
Referrals to private training for behavioural support.
Our comprehensive training and assessment suits professionals and volunteers.
How It Works
3 Easy Steps
Step 1: Book Your Session
Pick a date that works for you. Then complete a brief form to help us understand your goals and setting.
Step 2: Team Evaluation
Assessment in person or online: We'll observe your behaviour and social interactions and give you supportive feedback.
Step 3: Accreditation & Resources
Receive your handler certification, certificate, and access ongoing materials. Keep your therapy team growing.
Therapy Dog Certification Program Options
Schools and private businesses/practioners
Held at our Cheltenham, VIC, facility.
Includes 2 x 1.5-hour training sessions and an on-site assessment, includes infomrations on an animal implementation plan, risk assessment and further assessment.
All programs are available Online
Live Zoom session (1–1.5 hours) plus video submission.
Includes access to our instructional library of training classes.
Volunteer
Perfect for handler teams preparing for visits to hospitals or aged care homes.
Available both online and in person.
Pre-Assessment
No cost, No pressure.
A 15–20 minute check of temperament and suitability to make sure you and your dog are on the right track.
Attend In Person
Free Therapy Dog Info sessions and Pre Assessments. Held at our Cheltenham VIC facility approximatley every two weeks
Clearing Up Myths About Facility and therapy dog Training
Many dogs already have the right behaviours. Handlers often train their own dog. We only recommend training if reactivity or specific challenges appear. If you are unsure try Free on online quiz
Yes. Even a calm 7-year-old canine can become a certified therapy dog.
We offer assessment through virtual calls and video submission. You don’t need necessarily need to do training first, but it can be recommended if needed. Read our article about Therapy Dog Training Misconceptions to learn more
We give feedback and support and encourage you to try again. Many teams succeed on their second try.
Yes, our process aligns with AAI, AAT, and animal-assisted education. We support schools health professionals, therapists and community volunteers across Australia.
Bowie my now therapy dog attends psychotherapy sessions along side me... Thank you Alan, your support has been excellent.
Alan, as a gifted trainer, has provided the support and guidance that have enabled me and my dog to learn together.
I just got my 7 year old golden retriever, Archie, accredited as a Therapy Dog, and we are beyond impressed...
Happy Handlers
Paws For Support Story
Start Your
Therapy Dog Team Certification
Hundreds of handlers across Australia have joined the journey
Make a real impact in schools, clinics, and beyond.
to see if you and your dog are ready.
