Assisted Therapy Dog Adoption
An assisted therapy dog is a specially trained and temperament-tested companion that works alongside a professional to support the well-being of others in settings like schools, clinics, and care environments. Companion Paws' Assisted Therapy Dog Adoption Program pairs qualified professionals with carefully selected, rescue dogs that are trained and matched to suit both the handler and their workplace needs. Through a structured process of assessment, training, and certification, each dog-handler team is prepared to provide comfort, connection, and therapeutic benefit to the people they serve. The result is a meaningful partnership that enhances lives while giving deserving dogs a second chance.
At Companion Paws, we don't just find homes for dogs—we engineer life-changing partnerships. We collaborate with rescues across North America to identify dogs with the perfect potential, pairing them with new owners through a rigorous assessment of both human personality and canine temperament. This isn't a "plug-and-play" process; our experienced staff conducts deep-dive intake assessments to ensure that every match is built on a foundation of mutual compatibility and long-term success.
Once a pair is matched, the real work begins. Under the standards set by The LifeLine Canada Foundation, we guide you through a comprehensive skills training program. These aren't just pets; they are dedicated partners evaluated by Canada's top professional trainers and behaviorists. Upon successful completion, your team is officially certified—complete with a Companion Paws Canada Therapy Dog bandana, ID card, and certificate of registration.
Professional Support Through Assisted Therapy
Beyond personal companionship, we specialize in Assisted Therapy Dogs. These highly trained, temperament-tested dogs are the "co-pilots" for professionals in healthcare and education. From psychologists and doctors to teachers and counselors, our Assisted Therapy teams bring measurable benefits to clients, patients, and students alike. To maintain the highest tier of safety and efficacy, these teams undergo annual reassessments and strictly maintained veterinary records.
Please note: Companion Paws Certified dogs are designated therapy dogs and are not certified as service dogs. For more information on the difference between therapy dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs, see here. Also please understand that these dogs are trained rescue dogs. The journey to your dog becoming fully trained and certified as a Therapy Dog involves time, dedication and being authentic with the continued training.
A Certified Companion Paws Assisted therapy dog is a trained, temperament tested, evaluated and certified dog that brings benefits to their owners clients, patients and students. Assisted Therapy Dogs join their handler/owner (typically educators, teachers, psychologists, counselors and doctors) at their workplace to help their students, clients, customers and/or patients. Assisted therapy dogs and handlers are reassessed annually and require annual up to date veterinarian records.
Trained Assisted Therapy Dog Adoption Program
The Pre-Trained Dog Program offers a temperament assessed, manners and obedience trained dog for adoption.
Important Documents to be Submitted with Application
Please have your licensed and registered mental health treatment provider write a letter stating your diagnosis with a recommendation for a personal therapy dog aka emotional support dog. This should be on professional letter head with date, contact details, business practice and license with the licensed provider's signature.
If you rent the home you live in, you must include your landlord's permission letter with your application. There is a section for uploads during the process. Any applications with missing information will not be reviewed. The required information is used to ascertain suitability and dog criteria.
Program Process
Learn about the step-by-step process from application to certification.
View ProcessFrequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the program, costs, and requirements.
FAQ's