Any breed of dog can join the WAG therapy team, from a Chihuahua to a Great Dane or any shape or size in between as long as his temperament is calm, enjoys being stroked and handled and is not worried by sudden noises.

Is there an age limit?  WAG therapy dogs need to be at least 15 months old, and if visiting schools at least three years old. They must be in your ownership for at least six months.  They normally retire at 10 years of age.

Yes. Before joining the WAG team we will invite you and your dog to attend a short induction course where we shall tell you about WAG, explain elements of canine behaviour and what signs to look for in your dog and then go through the elements of the assessment test with you.

After the induction we can arrange an assessment to ensure that your dog’s temperament is suitable for visiting people who may be in a vulnerable situation. It may be that your dog isn’t quite ready for carrying out therapy visits in which case we may recommend a little extra training before taking the assessment.

Assessments are carried out by members of our assessment panel (see their details under ‘About Us‘). The result of your dog’s assessment will be agreed by the panel consisting of two members of the committee and the assessors.

• Dogs must be vaccinated against Leptospirosis, regularly treated for roundworm and protected against fleas.
• Raw meat diets should not be fed.
• Their coats must be well groomed to make sure there is no matting or vegetation and are free from soil or compost etc.
• Their nails, including dewclaws, must not be excessively long or sharp.