Therapy Dog Teams must maintain their skills and ability to work with each other. Therefore, each dog is required to participate in:

One Fidos training class each month, AND
One additional non-public event at our facility (e.g.- meeting or training class)

• Training classes are conducted on Wednesdays from 6:30 - 7:15 pm, Wednesdays from 7:30 - 8:30 pm, Saturdays 10am - 11am and Saturdays 11am - 12 noon at our training center.



• New Therapy Dog teams must attend the early Wednesday class (6:30 - 7:15 pm) for a minimum of 3 months.



• Dogs must participate in 4 Wednesday evening classes before they can start visiting. These classes provide opportunities for the dogs and handlers to socialize with each other while learning new skills and practicing therapy dog visits. Dogs are taught:
  
  • how to work around wheelchairs;
  • iv poles; and
  • walkers.


• Handlers must attend the Handlers Class and 2 Observation visits (without their dog), dogs must complete all obedience requirements, vet requirements and the 4 Wed early classes and the TD Coordinator or Assistant Coordinator and a Trainer must give approvals in order for teams to become "approved" Fidos For Freedom Therapy Dogs (TDs).



• They have fun practicing their obedience skills while playing games (Musical Chairs, Simon Says, etc.) and dancing with their human partners (country line dancing, square dancing).



• Announcements are held during every Wednesday evening class to keep everyone informed of upcoming events. They also provide an opportunity for the dogs to socialize and to practice their down stays.