Hi,
I think you are very fortunate to be in a position that allows you to introduce your Buddie to the clients at the nursing home at an early age. True, certification for Therapy Dogs cannot officially take place until the dog is at least a year old (Therapy Dog International testing), and it is assumed that a year+ is the time when dogs are mature enough to pass that testing. I'm sight impaired, and am partnered with a wonderful guide dog (black lab) Gwendy. I also raise pups for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, and quite frankly, I disagree with the age requirement for therapy dog testing - my opinion, of course. Potential guide dog pups are exposed to every imaginable experience whenever possible from a very early age, in most cases. Sure, the dogs change as they mature, but the more stimuli they are introduced to the better. In guide work, by the time a dog reaches its first Birthday it's likely able to handle all sorts of noise/distraction/temptation. It should be well versed in dealing with anything that a human might encounter on a daily basis, in order to work beside its future sight impaired partner. Each dog is different, of course, and is accepted into or released from the program according to its individual IFT testing (In For Training). I work part time as a music therapist, performing music workshops at adult residences for people who are disabled (mental retardation, Downes Syndrome, CP). In addition to being a superb guide, Gwendy has been a wonderful asset to my work in her dual career as a therapy dog (not officially tested). I have several clients who were initially terrified of Gwen, but over the past two years have become so comfortable with her that they will stroke her and sit beside her on the floor. Let me add, too, that Gwendy is NOT a sedate laid back sort of lab! She's boisterous and goofy, and full of energy (she was affectionately nicknamed "Gwenyth the Menyth while I was in training with her at Guiding Eyes!)! She climbs up into people's laps and slobbers labbie kisses all over their faces! With Gwen, ya either love her or you don't - most DO! Okay... now I've written a novella, so will stop here! Good luck with Buddie! I'm sure she'll be a great therapy dog, official or not!

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