Certifying Organizations

There are several organizations that certify dogs as fulfilling the requirements of being a good therapy animal. Each group has their own fees, membership requirements, and training regimen. One of the benefits of going through the process of certification is that when you perform therapy animal activities, you are covered by the certifying organization's insurance.

Therapy Dogs International (TDI)

Therapy Dogs International (TDI®) is a volunteer organization dedicated to regulating, testing and registration of therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers for the purpose of visiting nursing homes, hospitals, other institutions and wherever else therapy dogs are needed. Established in 1976 in New Jersey, they use local certified TDI testers to achieve certification.

Becky Iannone is the TDI evaluator in Western New York - contact her at (716) 772-7398 for information about testing dates.

Delta Society

The Delta Society is a non-profit organization that brings individuals together who share a common passion - a love of animals and people. Their mission is to help lead the world in advancing human health and well-being through positive interactions with animals. While TDI focuses on therapy dogs, Delta certifies other species as well. In terms of cost, Delta Society is more expensive but they offer more options.

HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response (HOPE AACR)

HOPE Animal-Assisted Crisis Response is a national all-volunteer, non-profit, crisis response organization with specially trained and certified handler/canine teams. Agencies call upon HOPE AACR teams to provide comfort and support to people affected by disasters, usually in the recovery phase. Since November 2001, HOPE AACR has grown to have more than 100 certified crisis response teams in five regions that cover 34 states.  They hold screenings and certification workshops in the Eastern U.S. - nearest location is Erie, PA. Check their Events Calendar  for upcoming dates.

Therapy Dogs, Inc.

Therapy Dogs, Inc. provides registration, support, and insurance for members who are involved in volunteer animal assisted activities. These activities include, but are not limited to, visits to hospitals, special needs centers, schools, and nursing homes. Our objective is to form a network of caring individuals who are willing to share their special animals in order to bring happiness and cheer to people, young and old alike.

Certified Local Trainers

Local training facilities that offer training specific to achieving the AKC Canine Good Citizen Program certificate for dogs. Begun in 1969, the CGC is a certification program that is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community.

Fort Hyde Kennels

(716) 772-2356

Sit n'Stay Pet Services

(716) 822-3287

Love Your Dog

(716) 636-0440

The Family Companion - Eagle Ridge Kennels

(716) 592-0802

Local Therapy Programs

PAWS FOR LOVE Volunteers

The SPCA is seeking people and pets of all kinds for its Paws for Love visitation program. Two- and four-footed volunteer teams bring joy to the lives of those in nursing homes, hospitals, and more. Dogs, cats, even pocket pets are encouraged to apply!

To learn more, contact Paws for Love Coordinator Debbie Braun, 716-681-0744.