[bubbles]

I am interested in taking Snoopy for her CGC/Therapy test. There is a test being given in our area at the end of May. I have been given all of the requirements/guidelines but would like to hear from those that have been through this. Snoopy's biggest problem will be controlling her excitement when she sees people. She just LOVES to greet everybody.

I will definitely work with her on this over the next few weeks. They offer the ability to go to a local mall to work with your dog around a lot of people. Any other suggestions on preparation, what to know before I go, etc. would be appreciated.

 

[My2Beagles]

This is also Shiloh Beaglebratz's biggest problem however to me it is also an encouraging sign. There are some dogs that are really shy and just don't want to greet people. The main thing is to keep Snoopy under control. When Shiloh B. was re-evaluated earlier this month, the evaluators also reminded me that it was how quickly the dog sort of re-groups - kind of like when people can regain their composure after being stunned by something. Probably the biggest thing - and the hardest to remember - RELAX. If you are nervous then that nervousness will travel down the leash and affect Snoopy and she will get nervous. The evaluation can be repeated - you have to wait some time (not sure how long). Do you know who is holding the evaluation - is it sponsored by Delta Society, Therapy Dogs International or ?????????? These are the national groups but there are local groups who are affiliated (sometimes) with the national. Shiloh B. and I are members of a local group that is working on affiliation with Delta Society. The national groups all have websites as well as some of the locals. The CGC is through the American Kennel Club.

I'll be around if you want the websites.

 

[Brien]

We looked into this a couple of months ago. After going over the 10 test areas we felt Bodie needed some more training. So we're doing an Intermediate class right now at Petsmart. The biggest hurdle for Bodie is his behavior around other dogs which is one of the testing areas. Right now he'd fail. But since we started this class we've seen big improvements with distractions. So we're on the right track, just not there yet.

I found several trainers on the AKC website that offer the certificate and will test your dog for $15-$20.

 

[bubbles]

This is the local dog training facility that is offering the test: http://www.otchpa.com/Index.htm. Their site doesn't say they are certified in the test. Is this something I should look for?

I have reviewed the requirements (they referred me to the TDI website for that information). I contacted other training facilities in our area but none returned my call.

I think I am going to try taking her to the mall as a dog in training and see how she does. I take her to the dog park regularly and she has no interest/reaction to other dogs--but she follows the people around like crazy.