That story about the chocolate lab is just too cute.
As for those interested in Therapy work, there are a couple of groups who certify dogs for this. Of course, I just had a brain fart and can't call their names to mind just now, but contact your local animal shelter or the facility you wish to visit and see what programs they have. Titles are not necessary, but a good grounding in obedience is a must and then you need to expose the dog to all types of equipment and such that you will encounter at a facility like that, such as wheelchairs, canes, walkers, small children, old people, etc. Temperament testing of your dog will give you a clue as to the suitability. My mother takes her Border Terriers to visit my aunt in the nursing home and none of them have had any type of therapy training. In fact, they've had little formal obedience training as they are conformation dogs, but there are "rules" at home such as "off" and "easy" that make them easy to control in the setting. Several of the other residents ask for the dogs to come visit when they're there and no one has complained about them. I honestly believe it helps people in that type of setting to get to pet a dog or cat and frequently brings back fond memories of pets they've had in the past. Major Kudos to all that do this as it is a valuable, but underappreciated, service to the recipients.

[This message has been edited by ktreva52 (edited November 23, 2000).]