Therapy Dog Certification
Certify Your Dog as a Trusted Therapy Companion
Our step-by-step certification process helps you recognise your dog’s emotional support role for your own wellbeing , especially helpful for individuals managing anxiety, carers supporting others, or families navigating neurodiversity.
Why Choose Paws For Support
Simple, Supportive, Personal Program
You don’t need costly training or a polished performance. If your dog is calm, affectionate, and brings a sense of comfort, they may already qualify.
We focus on recognising the bond you already share, not transforming your dog into something they’re not. The process is designed to be stress-free and affirming, a chance to highlight your dog’s natural temperament and your unique connection.
Perfect for:
Prefer to know if your pet is suitable first?
Kind, Calm, and Recognised
At Paws for Support, we don’t just tick boxes. We guide you with honesty, warmth, and real-world understanding. We offer a relaxed, kind, and honest approach to therapy dog certification , built around real-life relationships, not rigid rules.
Find Out What's Included
Everything You Need to Feel Confident With Your Therapy Dog
Whether you need emotional reassurance, gentle motivation, or simply want to acknowledge the calming role your dog plays, this program is for you.
We make it easy , no pressure, just guidance.
From Companion to Certified, Here’s How
Whether you're going online or in person, the path to certification is relaxed and easy to follow.
This isn’t about passing or failing, it’s about recognising your dog’s calm presence and guiding you toward success.
How It Works — 3 Easy Steps
Step 1: Book Your Session
Pick a time that suits you (virtual class or in-person). Sign up for our pre-assessment.
Step 2: Meet Your Assessor
We’ll gently review your dog’s behaviour and temperament, explaining everything along the way.
Step 3: Outcome & Recognition
If your dog qualifies, you’ll receive certification. If not quite ready, we offer clear, supportive next steps , with the option to reassess anytime.
Therapy Dog Certification Program: Choose between online or in-person
In-Person Group Program
$895
Held at our Cheltenham VIC facility
2 x 1.5-hour evening sessions + on-site assessment
Online Program
$895
Live Zoom call (1–1.5 hours) + video submission
Access to our step-by-step instructional library
Volunteer Program
$495
Tailored for those preparing for aged care or hospital visits
Available online or in person
Pre-Assessment
No Cost, All Welcome
We offer free 15–20 minute suitability sessions, Designed to assess temperament and school compatibility before you commit
In person
Cheltenham (VIC)
Held at our Cheltenham VIC facility
Available Thursday evenings or Saturdays
Virtual
Live Zoom session (1–1.5 hours) with our trainer
Submit video assessments for review. Includes access to our step-by-step video guides
Therapy Dog Certification Isn’t as Complicated as You Think
I just got my 7 year old golden retriever, Archie, accredited as a Therapy Dog, and we are beyond impressed...
Bowie my now therapy dog attends psychotherapy sessions along side me... Thank you Alan, your support has been excellent.
Not necessarily. If your dog is calm, friendly, and can follow basic directions, they may already be ready.
👉 We’re one of the few organisations that won’t ask you to pay for training unless it’s truly needed.
Any breed is welcome. What matters most is your dog’s temperament. We only recommend training if it's needed.
Yes! We offer Zoom sessions and video reviews for dog and owner anywhere in Australia.
Yes, in some cases. If your dog plays a role in supporting your daily functioning, emotional wellbeing, or NDIS goals, certification costs may be covered under your plan. It depends on how your plan is structured and how clearly the dog's role aligns with your goals.
No stress. You’ll get kind, helpful feedback and can reassess anytime, and we also offer specific therapy dog training classes too
No. Therapy animals provide emotional support, Find out more about Service Dogs and Certification here
Make It Official
Certify Your Dog as a
Therapy Companion
Hundreds of Australians have certified their dogs through us. If your dog brings calm and reassurance, let us help you formalise that bond.
Still thinking about it?
