While there are various organizations that offer resources for registration and certification of both the handler and dog, it is important to adhere to the Standards of Practice for Animal Assisted Inerventions. The Standards of Practice for Animal Assisted Interventions for Handlers and Animals can be found on the AAAIP Resources page. https://www.aaaiponline.org/resources

In addition to the Standards of Practice, below are resources for those who are interested in AAI Specialist Certifications, therapy animal registration,  and more information on facility animals. 

C-AAIS: Animal Assisted Intervention Specialist Certification

A certification through AAAIP designed for those who want to incorporate AAI into their practice. Content of the exam covers: animal welfare and well-being, zoonosis and infection prevention, animal behavior awareness, AAI foundations, and professional best practices. This initial certification is an examination of your knowledge of animal welfare and safety. This certification is recommended to demonstrate competency in the foundations of AAI and human-animal welfare. More information can be found at this link: https://www.aaaiponline.org/certificationpage

Pet Partners Therapy Animal Program Requirements

If interested in becoming a therapy dog and handler team with your personal dog, the requirements through Pet Partners can be found at this link: https://petpartners.org/volunteer/become-a-handler/

Requirements include handler training, animal health screening, in-person team evaluation, and a background check. 

Canine Companions Facility Dogs 

Canine Companions also offers therapy dog certifications in addition to offering facility dogs to those who apply through their organization. The process of receiving a facility dog through Canine Companions is a lengthy process and includes two-week training and on-going training through the organization.

For more information, please visit this link: https://canine.org/service-dogs/our-dogs/facility-dogs/