Angel Dogs AZ Inc

The Professional Therapy Dog Training program is a 14-week intensive course divided into two phases: 6 weeks of Basic Obedience Group Class followed by 8 weeks of Therapy Prep-Group Class. Teams practice in the community and undergo two internal evaluations before a final third-party evaluation. Volunteer Therapy Dog Training includes an eligibility evaluation and training focused on community interaction skills. Both programs ensure dogs meet temperament and behavioral standards for insurance and certification.

Pricing Summary

Professional Therapy Dog Training program costs $450 for a 14-week structured program including group classes, evaluations, and certification preparation. Pricing for volunteer training is not listed but requires eligibility evaluation. All programs include third-party evaluations and insurance eligibility support.

Angel Dogs AZ Inc provides professional therapy dog training programs for dogs and their handlers, focusing on ethical, accredited training for service in educational, healthcare, and community settings. They offer two main programs: Professional Therapy Dog Training for dogs working in classrooms, offices, or clinics, and Volunteer Therapy Dog Training for community visits to care homes, clinics, and events. Their training is developed in partnership with East Valley K9 and includes a structured 14-week program with basic obedience, therapy prep classes, community practice, and third-party evaluations. They emphasize animal advocacy, temperament vetting, and adherence to industry best practices. Handlers are taught to read dog body language, manage interactions safely, and support their dogs in high-stress environments. The organization also supports school districts and mental health professionals in integrating therapy dogs into their services.

They have trained over 90 successful therapy dog teams for Arizona’s largest school district using a trademarked curriculum tailored for school environments. Their trainers are nationally certified with over 25 years of combined experience and hold credentials including CPDT-KA, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and Pet Partners certification.

Angel Dogs AZ also offers ongoing support to ensure program integrity, risk mitigation, and continued compliance with insurance and ethical standards. They serve vulnerable communities including youth suicide prevention clinics, hospice facilities, and assisted living centers.

Accomplishments

Trained over 90 successful therapy dog teams for Arizona’s largest school district in the last three years using a proprietary curriculum. Trainers hold CPDT-KA certification, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator status, and are certified through Pet Partners and the National Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Staff have completed Dr. Ian Dunbar’s SIRIUS® Dog Trainer Academy and AZ Dog Smart Trainer Academy with certifications in behavior fundamentals, clicker training, and client communications.

How to Get Started!

Begin with a free phone consultation to discuss your dog’s suitability. If appropriate, schedule a free Meet and Greet to assess your dog’s temperament and training needs. Based on the evaluation, you will be guided to select the appropriate training program (Professional or Volunteer Therapy Dog Training) to prepare for certification and evaluation.