Are Organizations Offering Therapy/Service Animal Certification After Basic Training?

Many pet owners understandably seek to enhance their animals' value and potential through certifying them as therapy or service animals after basic obedience training. However, the landscape of certification organizations and the legitimacy of their processes are often in question. It is crucial for prospective certifiers to understand the distinctions between basic training and comprehensive certification, as well as to navigate the often confusing terrain of regulations and standards.

Understanding Therapy and Service Animals

Distinguishing between therapy animals and service animals is essential. Therapy animals are typically volunteer pets that provide companionship and emotional support in a variety of settings. Service animals, on the other hand, are highly trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities and are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Basic Obedience vs. Comprehensive Certification

Basic obedience training focuses on fundamental commands that can be beneficial for any pet, improving their behavior and interactions in both home and public settings. Comprehensive certification, however, involves rigorous training and standardized evaluations, which are necessary to confirm that an animal is suitable for public accompaniment or work.

The Burden of Authenticity

Regrettably, the term 'certification' has been misused by certain organizations, falsely claiming to provide credentials without meeting stringent criteria. These shortcuts do a disservice to legitimate certification processes and their potential benefits for both animals and society.

Signs of a Potentially False Certification

Claims of instant certification after minimal training or DVD watching. The absence of a transparent and accountability-based evaluation process. Limited training focus solely on basic commands without addressing public behavior and adherence to regulations. No post-certification support or monitoring to ensure the animal's ongoing suitability. Lack of recognition by recognized authorities or organizations.

Seeking Legitimate Organizations

For those serious about having their pet certified as a therapy or service animal, it is essential to research and select organizations that prioritize ethical practices and adhere to established standards. Here are some recommendations:

Cynosure Certification

Cynosure Certification is known for its stringent evaluation process, ensuring only highly trained and well-behaved service animals are certified. They provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to maintain standards.

Natural Helpers

Natural Helpers offers a transparent certification program that requires extensive training and rigorous assessment. They work closely with each candidate animal to ensure they are equipped to handle public environments.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC offers various programs for both dogs and other animals, including therapy animal programs that meet high standards of behavior and community engagement.

Conclusion

While the allure of quickly certifying an animal as a therapy or service animal after basic training can be tempting, it is important to prioritize legitimate certification processes. Organizations with transparent practices, rigorous evaluations, and ongoing support are the key to ensuring both the well-being of animals and the integrity of the designation.

Additional Resources

To learn more about therapy and service animal certifications, visit:

Autism Service Dogs National Service Animal Registry Therapeutic Riding Centers