Online Course + Community
Life Skills for Therapy Dog Teams
Become a confident, resilient Therapy Dog team in 10 Weeks!
Enrollment closes on July 7th
Scholarship applications are now closed.
Hi, I’m Sherrie, and I’m so glad you’re here!
Here’s two minutes of me to help you decide if this course will help you and your pup.
Imagine if you and your dog could …
Show up to your visits feeling calm and present, ready to make an impact.
Feel confident in your relationship and in yourselves even in new environments.
Navigate stressful situations during therapy sessions with the ability to bounce back.
Be able to identify when you need a break and to advocate for your own self-care.
Have fun strengthening your bond to make your therapy visits more impactful and fulfilling.
With Life Skills for Therapy Dog Teams you can!
In just 10 weeks, you will go from feeling uncertain about how your dog will react to therapy work situations to feeling confident and grounded, and experience the satisfaction of improved teamwork and the ability to set effective boundaries for your dog in therapy situations allowing you to make an even better impact in your area.
And the best part is, you’ll be learning and growing alongside other teams who want to do the same.
Meet Your Instructor
Hey there! I’m Sherrie Rohde, a Certified Animal Assisted-Intervention Specialist (C-AAIS) and Pro Dog Trainer.
With over a decade of experience building online communities professionally, I’ve designed this unique course specifically for you to address the gaps that I’ve encountered along my own journey to partnering with my dogs in therapy work.
As the Host of the Therapy Dog Talk podcast, I’ve been in many conversations with Therapy Dog teams and researchers around the world about the impact they’re making in their area. We’ve documented hours of what’s worked well for them, what they wish they knew and what they found challenging. This course is the fusion of my learnings and their experience.
I know firsthand how important it is to work on our own mental health while training our dogs and I can’t wait to explore these concepts with you to positively impact your experience, too.
What You Will Learn In This Course
How to increase your ability to feel calm, confident, balanced and resilient
How to help your dog to feel calm, confidence, balanced and resilient
How to teach your dog new skills through games-based training
How to think about your own experiences in a new way
How to apply your new skills in real-world therapy scenarios
How to feel ready to take on new challenges as a Therapy Dog team
This course has been preapproved to count towards 10 CE hours for Certified Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialists (C-AAIS).
This course is perfect for you if …
You’re just getting started but you already know that you want a good foundation.
You’ve tackled basic obedience skills with your dog and want to learn more.
You’re an experienced handler who wants to build a better relationship with your dog.
Life Skills for Therapy Dog Teams is for therapy dog handlers who want to be emotionally and mentally prepared for their visits and to have fun preparing their dog beyond basic obedience.
If you see yourself in any of these categories, then you’re in the right place!
Are you ready to shine as a Therapy Dog team?
Life Skills for Therapy Dog Teams
In this comprehensive course, you’ll work through the following modules:
Setting Expectations
This foundational module introduces you to the course, its objectives, and how to prepare for success in your learning journey.
Cultivating Calmness
Discover the importance of cultivating calmness for effective therapy sessions and learn fun games to teach your dog calmness.
Boosting Confidence
Understand the critical role of confidence in therapy dog teams, and explore engaging games to boost your dog’s confidence.
Fostering Resilience
Learn about the benefits of resilience in Therapy Dog work and gain insights into games that foster resilience in your dog.
Embracing Balance
Explore the significance of boundaries and self-care for well-being through helpful exercises and training games.
Maintaining Momentum
Learn how to recognize and celebrate progress, build a supportive network, and continue your education and growth.
There is such complexity to partnering with your dog as you work together in the field of animal-assisted interventions. I’m thrilled to see that this course will provide a safe and informative space to explore the nuances of this journey while also providing handlers with the tools needed to truly thrive together with their therapy dogs.
Take a Look Inside the Course
Module 1: Setting Expectations
- Lesson 1: Course Overview and Objectives
Understand the objectives of the course which aims to enhance the effectiveness of therapy dog teams by developing life skills such as setting expectations, staying calm, and building resilience. - Lesson 2: Setting Realistic Expectations for You and Your Dog
Learn the importance of setting realistic expectations, taking into account both the handler’s and the dog’s abilities, strengths, and limitations for successful therapy dog sessions. - Lesson 3: Establishing Goals and Tracking Progress
Discover the value of clear, achievable, and compassionate goal setting, along with the benefits of tracking progress for maintaining motivation and direction in therapy dog teams. - Lesson 4: Preparing for Success
Learn how to create a conducive learning environment and practice self-care for both the handler and the dog, emphasizing the significant role these practices play in preparing for a successful therapy dog journey.
Module 2: Cultivating Calmness
- Lesson 1: The Importance of Cultivating Calmness
Understand the importance of calmness in therapy dog teams for the well-being of both the handler and the dog, and get an overview of the module’s content. - Lesson 2: Calmness in Therapy Dog Teams
Learn from an example scenario about the journey to cultivate calmness in a therapy dog team, emphasizing the positive impact that calmness has on therapy sessions. - Lesson 3: Creating Your Calmness Story
Reflect on your journey, create a new narrative, share your calmness story, and establish supportive routines to build a stronger sense of calm and composure in your abilities as a therapy dog handler. - Lesson 4: Practicing Cultivating Calmness
Learn a simple mindful breathing exercise to help handlers cultivate calmness and maintain a calm mindset during therapy dog sessions. - Lesson 5: Learning How Calmness Impacts Your Pup
Understand the importance of building calmness in therapy dogs, how it relates to animal welfare, and the benefits it brings to therapy sessions. - Lesson 6: Teaching Your Dog Calmness Through Games
Learn engaging games that help therapy dogs develop calmness, self-control, and focus, making them more effective in therapy sessions. - Lesson 7: Integrating What You’ve Learned About Calmness
Reflect on the lessons learned in this module and apply the skills and knowledge gained to improve the well-being and effectiveness of therapy dog teams.
Module 3: Boosting Confidence
- Lesson 1: The Importance of Boosting Confidence
Understand the importance of confidence in therapy dog teams for the well-being of both the handler and the dog, and get an overview of the module’s content. - Lesson 2: Confidence in Therapy Dog Teams
Learn from an example scenario about the journey to build confidence in a therapy dog team, emphasizing the positive impact that confidence has on therapy sessions. - Lesson 3: Creating Your Confidence Story
Reflect on your journey, create a new narrative, share your confidence story, and establish supportive routines to build a stronger sense of self-assurance and confidence in your abilities as a therapy dog handler. - Lesson 4: Practicing Boosting Confidence
Learn a simple visualization exercise to help handlers build confidence and maintain a confident mindset during therapy dog sessions. - Lesson 5: Learning How Confidence Impacts Your Pup
Understand the importance of building confidence in therapy dogs, how it relates to animal welfare, and the benefits it brings to therapy sessions. - Lesson 6: Teaching Your Dog Confidence Through Games
Learn engaging games that help therapy dogs develop confidence, trust, and adaptability, making them more effective in therapy sessions. - Lesson 7: Integrating What You’ve Learned About Confidence
Reflect on the lessons learned in this module and apply the skills and knowledge gained to improve the well-being and effectiveness of therapy dog teams.
Module 4: Fostering Resilience
- Lesson 1: The Importance of Fostering Resilience
Understand the importance of resilience in therapy dog teams for the well-being of both the handler and the dog, and get an overview of the module’s content. - Lesson 2: Resilience in Therapy Dog Teams
Learn from an example scenario about the journey to build resilience in a therapy dog team, emphasizing the positive impact that resilience has on therapy sessions. - Lesson 3: Creating Your Resilience Story
Reflect on your journey, create a new narrative, share your resilience story, and establish supportive routines to build a stronger sense of resilience in your abilities as a therapy dog handler. - Lesson 4: Practicing Fostering Resilience
Learn about microadventures as a method to help handlers and therapy dogs build resilience and adaptability in various situations and environments. - Lesson 5: Learning How Resilience Impacts Your Pup
Understand the importance of building resilience in therapy dogs, how it relates to animal welfare, and the benefits it brings to therapy sessions. - Lesson 6: Teaching Your Dog Resilience Through Games
Learn engaging games that help therapy dogs develop resilience skills, such as flexibility, grit, optimism, and tolerance of frustration, making them more effective in therapy sessions. - Lesson 7: Integrating What You’ve Learned About Resilience
Reflect on the lessons learned in this module and apply the skills and knowledge gained to improve the well-being and effectiveness of therapy dog teams.
Module 5: Embracing Balance
- Lesson 1: The Importance of Embracing Balance
Understand the importance of balance in therapy dog teams for the well-being of both the handler and the dog, and get an overview of the module’s content. - Lesson 2: Balance in Therapy Dog Teams
Learn from an example scenario about the journey to maintain balance in a therapy dog team, emphasizing the positive impact that balance has on therapy sessions. - Lesson 3: Creating Your Balance Story
Reflect on your journey, create a new narrative, share your balance story, and establish supportive routines to build a stronger sense of balance in your life as a therapy dog handler. - Lesson 4: Practicing Embracing Balance
Learn about setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care as methods to help handlers and therapy dogs maintain balance and prevent burnout. - Lesson 5: Learning How Balance Impacts Your Pup
Understand the importance of embracing balance in therapy dogs, how it relates to animal welfare, and the benefits it brings to therapy sessions. - Lesson 6: Teaching Your Dog Balance Through Games
Learn engaging games that help therapy dogs develop balance skills, such as stress reduction, relaxation, and the ability to recharge, making them more effective in therapy sessions. - Lesson 7: Integrating What You’ve Learned About Balance
Reflect on the lessons learned in this module and apply the skills and knowledge gained to improve the well-being and effectiveness of therapy dog teams.
Module 6: Maintaining Momentum
- Lesson 1: Recognizing and Reflecting on Your Progress
Recognizing and celebrating your achievements is essential for maintaining motivation, boosting self-confidence, and staying inspired in your therapy dog journey. - Lesson 2: Celebrating Your Achievements
Celebrate your achievements by reflecting on your progress, sharing your accomplishments, and rewarding yourself and your dog to maintain motivation and a positive mindset. - Lesson 3: Applying Skills in Real-Life Settings
Applying the skills you’ve learned is crucial for effectiveness and adaptability in real-life therapy dog settings, helping to solidify your learning. - Lesson 4: Staying Engaged and Committed
Staying engaged and committed to your therapy dog work ensures the well-being and effectiveness of both you and your dog, allowing you to provide valuable support to those who need it. - Lesson 5: Building a Supportive Network
Building a supportive network of friends, family, and fellow therapy dog handlers is crucial for maintaining momentum, navigating challenges, and celebrating achievements. - Lesson 6: Continuing Education and Growth
Continuing education and growth in your therapy dog work helps you stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and best practices, ensuring the well-being and effectiveness of both you and your dog.
Course Bonuses
Bonus 1: Community Calls ($300 value)
Throughout the course, you’ll have access to four community calls where we discuss your progress, answer questions, and build a community of like-minded individuals on the same journey.
Bonus 2: Downloadable Workbook ($150 value)
A comprehensive guide designed exclusively for this course that you can always refer back to.
Bonus 3: Curated Resources ($150 value)
I’m known for my resources and this course is no exception, I’ll provide you with recommendations to take your learning to the next level.
Bonus 4: Exclusive Community ($500 value)
Connect with fellow Therapy Dog teams, share your experiences, and learn from each other in a supportive and welcoming online space.
Bonus 5: Student Vault ($250 value)
Additional guides to understand the concepts behind how your dog learns, full of games to play with your dog and enrichment ideas.
Bonus 6: Earlybird Community Call ($50 value)
Sign up before June 16th to join us for a bonus community call for those who are already enrolled in the course. Bring your dog so they can say hi, too!
Here’s everything you’ll get when you enroll …
The knowledge you need to build new skills
Complete access to all course materials
Access to a supportive community
Personalized feedback and guidance
Lifetime access to all course materials
And so much more!
Don’t wait another day to start your journey towards building a better relationship with your dog.
Are you ready to elevate your skills and increase your impact with your dog?
I can’t wait to see you in the course and watch you unleash your potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time will I need to dedicate to this each week?
On average, you should plan to dedicate 1-2 hours per week to the course materials. This does not include the time you’ll spend working with your dog outside of the course.
What is the timeline for this course?
Enrollment is open from June 1 to July 6th. If you enroll before June 16th, you’ll also have access to our bonus connection call with earlybird students.
The rest of the course is split into the release of pre-recorded videos for each module followed by an implementation week with community Q&A call:
- June 19: Setting Expectations module releases
- July 7: Course kickoff call
- July 10: Cultivating Calmness module releases
- July 20: Implementation week + community Q&A call
- July 24: Boosting Confidence module releases
- August 3: Implementation week + community Q&A call
- August 7: Fostering Resilience Module module releases
- August 17: Implementation week + community Q&A call
- August 21: Embracing Balance Module module releases
- August 31: Implementation week + community Q&A call
- September 4: Maintaining Momentum module releases
- September 14: Closing community Q&A call
All community Q&A calls will be recorded; however, you’ll get the most benefit if you’re able to join them live.
Can I work on the course material at my own pace?
You absolutely can, but you will also get greater benefit if you stay up to date and join our bi-weekly community calls.
Do I need any special equipment for this course?
You will need a reliable internet connection to access the course materials. While other things may be mentioned in the course, you’ll likely find them around your home.
What if I need extra help during the course?
The course includes Q&A calls and a community where you can ask questions and receive support from both myself and your fellow students. You are not in this alone!
How long will I have access to the course materials?
You will have lifetime access to the course materials. This allows you to learn at your own pace and revisit the materials as often as you like. The calls will only take place during the 10 weeks.
What if I’m a total beginner? Can I still take this course?
Absolutely! This course is designed with both beginners and experienced dog handlers in mind. It starts with the basics and gradually progresses to more advanced techniques.
I don't have a dog yet, but I plan to get one. Can I still take this course?
Yes, this course can be valuable for future dog owners too. You’ll gain knowledge and skills that will help you now and you can refer back to the training when you bring home your pup.
I already have a Therapy Dog. Will this course be beneficial for me?
Absolutely! This course is designed to enhance your skills as a handler and deepen your bond with your dog. It covers a wide range of topics, that will benefit both novice and experienced Therapy Dog teams.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
If you feel like you would benefit from this course but cannot afford it, scholarship applications are open through June 29. Apply here: sherrierohde.com/scholarship
If you can reasonably afford this course, please leave the scholarships for those who need them.
Is this course accessible?
I have completed MableyQ’s course on Accessibility Made Easy and am being intentional about building accessibility into this course. Here’s how I’m doing so:
- All course videos show my face in case you read lips.
- All course videos have human transcribed closed captions and downloadable transcripts.
- I use visual aids often as I’m a visual learner myself.
- The videos are are short to make them easy to digest.
- I am actively updating my overall branding and website to meet accessibility standards.
Note that the course takes place within our Circle community which is avaiable in your browser or via iOS and Android app.
Please use the contact form below for any accessibility needs. It will come directly to me (Sherrie) and I am happy to make accommodations where I am able to.