Therapy Dog Teams

Dog-Harmony is an affiliate of Intermountain Therapy Animals (ITA) and a provider of therapy dog teams in Bay, Walton, and Okaloosa counties in northwest Florida.

Dog-Harmony evaluates each of the therapy teams to determine how they can best give back to their community. We are the liaison between a facility and the dog therapy teams. We have developed successful programs in three area hospitals and have had continued success working with area nonprofits and with at-risk youth.

Dog-Harmony offers ongoing training and support to these teams, which increases volunteer retention. We handle the scheduling, logistics, safety, risk management, and volunteer recruitment.

By implementing these best practices, Dog-Harmony ensures that therapy dog teams operate smoothly, deliver impactful services, and sustain their efforts for the long term.

Steps to Become a Therapy Dog Team

Therapy dog team testing is offered twice per year. Therapy dogs must have the ability to pass the Canine Good Citizen test before evaluation. All candidates must be friendly toward humans and dogs.

Candidates must also read, understand, and follow ITA’s Teaching and Training Philosophy.

Once a therapy dog team is evaluated, the R.E.A.D.ing Paws workshop is available for the appropriate teams. Dog-Harmony coordinates R.E.A.D.ing Paws programs at schools in Bay, Walton, and Okaloosa counties.