TLC’s Companion Paws (Train Your Own) Assisted Therapy Dog Adoption Process:

  • Step 1 – Complete and submit the online Application with all required supporting documents together.
  • Step 2 – We will contact you within 7 days of submitting your application to schedule an interview call to go through the program, process and the next steps to move forward.
  • Step 3 – Moving forward, the payment of $2800 can be made by E-transfer, Credit Card or Cheque and the contract signed. If you are not approved for our Adoption program, you will be refunded your cost 100%.
  • Step 4 – Once payment and contract is received, the applicant is scheduled for a call with our Training Manager.
  • Step 5 – Once the Training Manager has ascertained the criteria for your dog, you will be scheduled for a call with our Companion Paws Adoption Manager.
  • Step 6 – Within 1 weeks time, an assessment will be made by our Companion Paws Team for final approval and to ascertain a suitable dog match for you and your family.
  • Step 7 -Upon final approval of acceptance into the program, you will be added to the dog search list.
  • Step 8 – Once a suitable dog has been found, we will work directly with you, to confirm suitability. They will have health and vaccinations confimred. For any dogs under any medical treatment will be fully healed and healthy prior to placement.
  • Step 9 – You will be scheduled for a zoom call with our Training Manager to fully prepare for your dog’s placement.
  • Step 10  – Prior to placement, a final assessment will be performed for further confirmation of temperament and suitability.
  • Step 11 – Upon confirmation and approval of suitability, the dog will be placed in his/her new forever home.
  • Step 12 – After settling-in time for the applicant and their new forever best friend, the handler and their new dog will be required to begin training. All these costs are covered by the Program!
  • Step 13 – Once training is complete and your dog is very well trained and ready, the handler will be registered into TLC’s Companion Paws Therapy Dog Skills Training Online Course.
  • Step 14 – Once you have successfully completed TLC’s Companion Paws Skills Training Online Course, the handler will be scheduled for a final Temperament Assessment with a local Companion Paws Assessor.
  • Step 15 – When handler passes the Temperament Assessment, they move forward to the scheduled date for thire Final Evaluation for certification.
  • Step 16 – When the handler and dog pass the Companion Paws Final Evaluation, The LifeLine Canada Foundation will forward registration documentation by email, to be completed by the handler and returned by email with all required supporting documentation.
  • Step 17 – Once all registration documentation is received, the handler will be mailed a Companion Paws Therapy Dog vest, Identification Card and Certificate of Registration.
  • Step 18 – Continue to maintain and keep up with training at all times.
  • Step 19 – Complete online follow-up form every 3 months.
  • Step 20 – Complete all annual requirements for Companion Paws Assisted Therapy Dog Registration, including annual renewal of $95 and annual re-assessment.  The annual renewal fee covers the cost of the annual re-assessment.
  • Step 21 – Keep up on skills training for the life of the dog in order to keep the amazing connection and bond.
  • Step 22 – Support and guidance is provided throughout your journey with Companion Paws.