Event Protocol for Therapy Dog Events
Please follow this protocol for the comfort and safety of the dogs, handlers and participants at all therapy dog events. Please sign this Certificate of Understanding indicating you agree to the provisions set forth below:
(Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact us in advance)
1. Booking fees must be submitted at least 30 days before an event to guarantee there is sufficient time to organize the event. If booking fees do not arrive prior to 30 days, we cannot guarantee proper service.
2. Hosts must provide parking for the dogs/handlers. If free parking is not available then parking tickets must be reimbursed.
3. If you have an event photographer/videographer, please have them speak to our coordinator before the event.
4. Internal room temperature must be set to the lowest setting (18˚C recommended) since the dogs overheat easily. In case the temperature cannot be controlled, then fans can be set up.
5. Make sure the floor is washed/vacuumed since participants will often sit on the ground with the dogs.
6. Set up chairs for the handlers so that there is at least 10 feet of space between each chair.
7. During the event volunteers/hosts will control the number of participants such that there are no more than 6 people around each dog at any given time so that the dogs are not overwhelmed.
8. Help to unload the equipment from the van and set up before the event starts and repack the equipment back into the vehicle after the event.
9. Provide 2 bowls of water for the dogs and refill during the event.
10. The dogs would appreciate these treats (from Bosleys/Tisol stores) since some have allergies.
11. Ensure that a table is set up so that equipment can be laid out and sorted.
For Large Events over 60 Participants
12. Depending on the size, location and facilities at the event, hosts must provide volunteers (number to be determined in advance) to assist with activities such as, but not limited to the following:
a. Help dress the dogs in harnesses, collars and leashes.
b. Set up mats for participants who want to sit on the floor and pet the dogs.
c. Hold the leashes of dogs as needed to assist handlers.
