[rex123]

For a couple years ago ever since I've heard about the therapy dog program, I've wanted to enlist with my 4yrs old Siberian Husky. Well last week there was an article in the newspaper about The Saint Johns Ambulance Therapy Dog Program. And it said they were doing a course in my town.

I really want to go and try, but I'm kind of scared. You see Rex is really good with people, he loves them that's why I wanted to enlist him because he brings a smile to the face of everyone he meets. The only thing is the courses are not private there will be other people and other dogs. Now Rex has never bit or fought with another dog, but he does not get along well with other dogs. I'm scared that there presence will mess up his test and he will act differently.

I really don't want to go take the test and then fail... Maybe I just need a boost of confidence and I guess I would never know if I didn't go try.

Do you think I should try to take the test? How should I prepare for it?

[shazamataz]

How is Rex at dog parks?
In those training type coarses the dogs are in pretty proximity to each other so they need to be well trained.

I don't know how much training you have done with him but maybe an obedience coarse would be a good idea before the therapy one just to get him used to being trained around other dogs.

Sounds like a great idea though, I hope he does well!

[rex123]

Unfortunately we do not have a dog park anywhere around where I live...

I have done a obedience class before though and we finished 2nd.

He is a very obedient dog, just seems to be wary around other dogs. When he was a puppy I socialized him with as many dogs as possible and he loves my neighbours Great Dane and Golden Retriever and my grandpa's corgie...

Some dogs just seem to make him on edge(if that makes sense.

[shazamataz]

All you can do is try then.

Is the coarse expensive? Meaning is it worth the risk in case it doesn't work out?

Sorry, I'm sure he would do fine, I always think worst case scenario though, just in case :)

[Catsmine]

Give it a go, if you can afford it. Even if he fails, it will be helpful training.

[rex123]

Thanks you guys!

My dog always used to love other dogs, until the age of 2. He just seems like he's on guard all the time, like he's trying to protect me.

And there were a few events that led to him believing this. Like when my brother moved in with his black lab. His black lab was about 6mos. Old and one night I got up to get a drink of water and his black lab went crazy and lunged at me barking and growling, my dog stood there and gave a lor eerie growl at him.

I think that was the root of his problem. Also with me dad's drinking he seems to have to always be on guard...

[shazamataz]

He just loves you and wants to keep you safe.
Wish my dogs were like that, they run to me when something scary happens but it's only to hide behind my legs :D