A no-kill rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption shelter for dogs and cats.

Delta Pet Partners

Last updated: 12.05.09

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FAQ
What are the basic requirements for becoming Pet Partners?
The animal must be at least one year old and enjoy meeting new people. He or she must accept having ears and tail patted, accept handling of all four feet, refrain from jumping on people, and must be comfortable with several people petting him or her simultaneously.


Dogs must understand basic commands including sit, down, stay, and come, and be able to perform them in unfamiliar surroundings. The animal must also be well mannered and have a reliable temperament. Tricks are also helpful for engaging the population you are visiting.


Which segments of the training include my animal? Can I bring my animal to all of the different training sessions?
The orientation and workshop are for the handler only. Animals join the handlers at the evaluation only. Please only bring your animal to the specific sessions that require his or her time. Thank you.


What kind of training is required for my dog?
Mastery of the basic obedience commands in different environments is essential. The team needs to demonstrate that the dog reliable and under control. During the test he will be observed while walking on a leash and asked to perform sit, down, stay, and come.


Can pets other than dogs become Pet Partners?
Absolutely! Any domestic animal can be registered with Delta Society. Dogs, cats, rabbits, and a miniature horse are all part of the program.


What is the total length of time for the training?
The Delta Society requires 12 hours of training to register as a Pet Partner team. The orientation is 90 minutes, and the workshop is 10.5 hours over two days.


How do I sign up for the orientation?
The orientation is open, no pre-registration or sign up is needed. Just refer to the dates on our calendar and mark yours with the session that you would like to attend. The orientation is 90 minutes, and is a prerequisite to attending a workshop.


How do I sign up for the workshops?
You may register for one of the workshops at the orientation. A maximum of ten people may sign up for each workshop, and workshop fees are collected at the time of signup. Workshops are two days, Friday from 9-4 and Saturday from 9-2:30, with an hour break for lunch each day.


How do I sign up for the evaluation / skills and aptitude test?
Evaluations are by appointment for participants who have previously completed Delta training or need to renew their Delta registration. Both handlers and animals attend the skills and aptitude test.


What is the cost of the training?
The cost of the two-day workshop is $225. This fee includes the registration and evaluation for one therapy animal, Delta educational materials, "Therapy Dogs Today" by Kris Butler, snacks, a $35 donation to ABC, and helps cover the facility overhead.


Where is the training held?
All sessions are held at the ABC Activity Center, located on the west end of the parking lot.


Who conducts the training sessions?
The workshop instructor and team evaluators are trained and registered with Delta Society.


My dog is very friendly, but I haven't taught her how to stay. What can I do to help her qualify for the program?
There are many excellent trainers who specialize in positive reinforcement methods of training. If you need some coaching, you could sign up for an obedience class or private lessons. Here are some local trainers who use positive reinforcement: