Therapy Dog Team Program
Regular free Information and pre-assessments sessions are held across Melbourne.
A Simple Way to Make a Lasting Impact
Paws For Support believe good therapy dogs simply need a reasonable level of obedience and be of a good temperament. Therapy dog owners need to know how to read and handle their dogs, and people they meet appropriately and know the rules and recommendations and responsibilities of having a therapy dog. That's it, we do not offer long training programs just simple to the point information, assessment and official certification.
Therapy dogs can be used in a wide range of facilities and environments
- Schools
- aged care homes
- Hospitals
- Counsellors
- Occupational Therapists
- Emotional Support Dog (for owners wellbeing)
Our certification is available and recognised Australia wide.
We provide regular free information and pre-assessments sessions in Melbourne and hold our group programs in three locations :
- Bayside Melbourne with Alan Sheppard - 0411 705 686. admin@pawsforsupport.com.au FREE INFORMATION SESSION 7pm First Tuesday of every month. Black Rock Civic Hall . Program session dates as follows : Commencement dates are as follows : 1st/15th June. 13th/20th July )
- Greenvale (Northern Melbourne Suburbs ) Nicole - 0420 900 669 nicolem@pawsforsupport.com.au (Call for info session details)
- Malvern (Eastern Melbourne) Sepi - 0401 686 262 sepihelali@gmail.com FREE INFORMATION SESSION - 5pm - 6pm May 27th Surry Hills Neighbour Centre, 157 Union Rd, Surry Hills Vic
NB Bookings are essential for all sessions
Not in Melbourne? - not a problem - Victorian Country Manager Call/text/email Christie Peters 0419 513 619
cjpeters717@icloud.com to arrange a online meeting or receive a suitability checklist.
Interstate Call/ text Alan 0411 705 686 to arrange a online meeting or receive a suitability checklist.
We also offer a special School Well Being Dogs Program - Check out Comfort Dogs in Schools.
Through our programs you will learn about possible insurances, rules and regulations, including how to ensure the well being of you and your dog bringing joy to all 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 program commencement date from one our three locations or chat to us about a date for an online meeting.
Step 2: Attend Program Sessions
Attend the two evening program sessions with your dog or attend a one on one online session: We'll pass on valuable recommendations and techniques plus observe and assess your dogs behaviour and social interactions (supplying supportive feedback if requred). Or submit a number of videos supporting your dogs obedience and temperamant (checklist supplied).
Additional information/questionnaire are supplied for schools and private practice)
Facility assessment.
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.
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.
