Hudson Valley Humane Society

Visiting Pet Program

Delta Evaluation Reminders

SOME REMINDERS FOR TAKING THE DELTA EVALUATION:

1.  Your canine companion is not just a pet.  He or she is a working therapy dog and, as such, must exhibit a high standard of behavior in order to pass the therapy dog test.  If you allow your dog to practice unacceptable behaviors at home and with your family, you can’t expect him or her to come into the evaluation and be certified. 

Just like with children, consistency is the key to success with your working dog.  Common behavior problems that can be avoided through your ongoing work with your dog are: mouthing, barking, jumping up, making unacceptable vocalizations, pulling on lead, not sitting when asked, not going down when asked and not staying in place when asked.  So, please practice before coming to the evaluation. Begin practicing several weeks in advance at least 5 minutes every day.  Practice at home and in locations similar to the evaluation site.   

2.  Review the Pet Partners Team Training Manual and review the evaluation standards a few weeks before you and your canine team mate come to the evaluation.  This will help you prepare so that you can be successful during your evaluation.  If you have a behavior issue and need help, send an e-mail to HVHSVisitingPets@aol.com and we will recommend trainers for you to contact who can help you get ready.

3.  And remember if you have an older team mate, some days they just don't feel well enough to evaluate (or to visit).  Please evaluate your dog's health very conservatively in terms of your expectations when he or she is or has been sick.  An evaluation can be rescheduled in event of health related issues for your canine.  For those who are recertifying, you can contact Delta before your evaluation if need be and Delta will give you a three-month extension on your certification.  This should get you through to the next evaluation date when your dog will, hopefully, be feeling better.