How can I get more information about Therapy Dogs International?

If you would like more information, please visit our Information Pack page, contact us via email at tdi@gti.net, or if you would prefer, call us at (973) 252-9800.

I just submitted my application, how long will it take for me to be registered?

Once we receive an application, it takes approximately 6-8 weeks for processing, barring any complications.  One way to make the process go a little faster is to be sure to send us all of your information, so that we do not have to send your application back to you for further clarification.

What is TDI's dog vaccination policy?

TDI Registrations must be submitted with TDI’s Annual Health Records form (supplied by your Evaluator) which includes the following requirements:

- Annual Check-up attested to by your Veterinarian with the statement included on our Health Records form that the dog is physically and mentally healthy and free of contagious disease.

- Mandatory Current Rabies Vaccination (MUST BE GIVEN BY A VETERINARIAN)

- An initial set of Core Distemper Vaccinations

- An initial set of Core Hepatitis Vaccinations

- An initial set of Core Parvovirus Vaccinations

- A negative Fecal Exam must have been done within the past year

- A negative Heartworm test must have been done within the past year unless there is no heartworm present in the area or if the dog is on preventative medication.

If vaccines are given by someone other than a Veterinarian, a special self-vaccination form will be provided.

After I become a member, does TDI provide training for therapy dog visits?

Upon becoming a member, you will receive a training manual titled TDI's Associate Member's Guide and a Handler’s DVD. It is mandatory that all new members read this guide thoroughly and watch the DVD before beginning any therapy dog visits.   

When I become a member, where can I visit?

TDI's Membership Support is available to help members get started. Along with your new membership materials, you will receive a list of facilities in your area that have requested Therapy Dog visits in the past, and are already familiar with our program. You may contact any facility (whether they appear on the list we provide or not) to inquire if they would like Therapy Dog visits. If you have trouble setting up visitations, you may contact TDI's Membership Support for additional help.

What are your membership and renewal fees?

Presently, for your first dog, it's $35 to join, and $30 a year to renew.  For every dog after that, it is only $5 to join, and $5 a year to renew.

I have passed the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test already.  Can I use this instead of the TDI Evaluation? 

No, you must take the TDI Evaluation as a whole and have it conducted by a TDI Evaluator, even if you have already passed the CGC Test.

What if there are no Evaluators in my area?

Please do not get discouraged.  Even if there is no Evaluator in your area, you can still be Evaluated.  Many Evaluators are willing to travel to accommodate those interested in testing, so please contact your nearest Evaluator, even if they are located a distance away.  In addition, you can apply for Limited Registration if there is no Evaluator within 4 hours from your home.  For more information about this type of Registration, please click here.

What kind of training is required before my dog can become a TDI Therapy Dog?

There is no specific training required prior to taking the TDI Evaluation.  If your dog is able to pass the TDI Evaluation, your dog is able to apply for registration.  However, it is recommended that your dog go through a basic obedience course or you train your dog in basic obedience yourself prior to taking the TDI Evaluation.  Nevertheless, the most important aspect of the test is the evaluation of the dog’s temperament.

Does TDI Insurance cover me on visits to my place of employment?

TDI has a volunteer insurance policy, so you will not be covered by TDI's Insurance if you visit at your place of employment.

Do I have to join a TDI Chapter?

TDI Associate Members and their dogs are not required to join a TDI Chapter, but many Associate Members do feel that it is beneficial to join a local Chapter.  For more information on TDI Chapters, please click here.

I already belong to another Therapy Dog organization; can I be a member of TDI as well?

No.  TDI does not allow its members to be registered with any other Therapy Dog organization.

My dog is deaf, can my dog become a Therapy Dog with TDI?

Unfortunately, we cannot register deaf dogs.