Sharing gentle, loving dogs with you
Bow Wow Therapy is a 100% volunteer-driven nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization fueled by compassion, dedication, and a shared belief in the healing bond between people and dogs. Our certified therapy dogs provide their gentle presence and hearts to those who need comfort the most. As part of Bow Wow Therapy, these trained dog teams visit local libraries, businesses, community events, and care facilities to offer companionship and support. These visits enhance emotional well-being and help reduce stress for residents and visitors.
Becoming a Bow Wow Therapy certified dog team is a deeply rewarding experience. It strengthens your bond with your dog while supporting the mental and emotional health of others. Our process ensures safe, meaningful therapy visits.
Lynn Gourley-Allen, Owner - Bow Wow Therapy
Become a Bow Wow Therapy Dog Team
Step 1: Training & Evaluation
Bow Wow Therapy collaborates with the Lake Stevens K9 Academy, a reputable organization for dog training certification, to train and evaluate handlers and their therapy dogs for essential therapy work. To ensure calm and safe interactions with adults, children, and vulnerable populations, dogs must pass the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test and undergo specialized training. This training includes exposure to wheelchairs, crutches, and other medical equipment, ensuring that therapy dogs are confident and dependable in real-world settings.
Step 2: Registration & Certification
Once you and your dog pass the therapy dog evaluation, you can register with Bow Wow Therapy to obtain your dog training certification, which will enable you to participate in therapy dog visits.
Step 3: Site Visits
Step 3: Site Visits
Organizations and individuals can reach out to Bow Wow Therapy to schedule visits, and we can assist in coordinating these engagements. Organizations may also connect directly with handlers, while handlers have the option to contact organizations to arrange visits. Bow Wow Therapy offers documentation that allows handlers to track their visits and work towards additional recognition, including achieving dog training certification and AKC Therapy Dog Certification.
Please Help Our Cause
Bow Wow Therapy dogs require specialized training, veterinary care, insurance, evaluation, and certification, including dog training certification, to perform their important work safely.
Your support makes this possible. Every contribution helps ensure our therapy dogs are healthy, prepared, and ready to bring calm and connection to individuals and families. Please consider donating, which may be tax-deductible.
