Therapy Dog Teams

Effectively managing and coordinating therapy dog teams to work with hospitals and at-risk youth involves a blend of strong organizational structures, clear communication, robust training, and strategic partnerships.

Photograph of two therapy dog labradoodles, Sammie and Murphy, who are wearing blue bandanas with Dog-Harmony's logo

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 therapy team 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 continued to work with area nonprofits and 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.

R.E.A.D.ing Paws Program

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.

 

photograph of cheryl law and her therapy dog, a rottweiler named Theo, reading with a destin elementary student

Request a Therapy Dog Team Visit

Contact Name(Required)
Contact Email(Required)
If the exact number is not known, please provide an estimate
Is this a Children's Program?(Required)
Facility Address(Required)
Is Your Organization a Non-Profit?(Required)
Why are you requesting a therapy dog visit? Please let us know how we can serve your population and any requirements you may have.

What People Are Saying About Dog-Harmony

“We love Dog Harmony; not only do they provide our kids dog education but each child has an opportunity to approach the dogs properly. To have the chance to pet and love the pups makes our kids so happy. Each of the volunteers are so patient and encouraging with our kids, even the ones that may be a little fearful, end up giving belly rubs. We are so thankful that Dog Harmony makes time to visit us whenever we ask.“

— Melissa Parsons

Education Liaison, Children in Crisis, Inc.

What We Do

photograph of therapy dog vivian at dune lakes elementary for literacy night in santa rosa beach, fl

Children's Education with Canine Body Language Classes

Dog-Harmony is leading the way in humane education, providing simple essential programs to shape future generations, building a foundation of respect and responsibility for animals among children of all ages and abilities.

Photograph of two therapy dog labradoodles, Sammie and Murphy, who are wearing blue bandanas with Dog-Harmony's logo

Therapy Dog Teams

Dog-Harmony manages and coordinates therapy dog teams to work with healthcare providers and at-risk youth. The program requires a blend of clear communication, robust volunteer training, and strategic partnerships.

photograph of stan lee, a black-and-white short-haired collie rescue dog

Keeping Dogs in Homes

Behavioral issues are the top reasons for owner surrenders to shelters. Dog-Harmony helps families keep their dogs at home by providing training, equipment, and food and supplies from our Paw Pantry to support both pets and their people.

Woman saying goodbye to her dog friend

Pet Bereavement Counseling

In the depths of sorrow, it’s important to remember that your pet’s spirit lives on in your heart.