Project Canine

Project Canine offers a four-step certification process for therapy dog teams. Step 1 is a 3-hour group class that introduces therapy dog principles, safety protocols, and includes an evaluation of the dog and handler team. Dogs must be comfortable around other dogs and able to settle for the duration. After Step 1, teams proceed through additional steps including Practice Lab, Test, and final certification. Pre-assessment is recommended before Step 1, especially for dogs raised during the pandemic. Classes are held monthly at facility locations in Seattle.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not publicly listed. Registration for Step 1 class and pre-assessment is done through online scheduling forms. No package or rate information is disclosed on the website.

Policies

Classes require dogs to be comfortable around other dogs; those unable to settle in the first hour must step out. Additional requirements are provided in the confirmation email. No cancellation or rescheduling policy is explicitly stated on the website.

Project Canine is a nonprofit organization based in Seattle, WA, that provides a structured, four-step certification process for individuals seeking to become certified therapy dog teams. They offer group classes focused on teaching handlers and their dogs the principles of safe, compassionate interaction in therapeutic settings. Their Step 1 class introduces best practices for handling, safety protocols, and includes an evaluation to determine readiness for therapy work. They emphasize preparation for dogs, especially “COVID puppies,” and recommend a pre-assessment before enrolling in class. Project Canine does not train service or emotional support animals but provides resources for those seeking them. They also offer visit videos to showcase certified therapy dog teams in action, and their programs are designed for dogs and handlers to train together in a group setting at a private facility. They do not offer private, in-home, or board-and-train services.

Their mission is to cultivate compassion, kindness, and connection through certified therapy dogs, and they have been serving the community since 2007. They serve facilities seeking therapy dog visits and provide a formal request process for organizations. They do not sell dog gear or offer grooming, boarding, or walking services beyond their certification program.

Project Canine’s unique advantage is its clear, step-by-step pathway to therapy dog certification with standardized evaluation, strong community focus, and emphasis on safety and readiness over speed. Their process ensures teams are well-prepared for real-world therapeutic environments.

Accomplishments

Project Canine has been serving the community since 2007 and has certified numerous therapy dog teams. They maintain a transparent, structured certification process and provide on-demand visit videos showcasing certified teams in action.

How to Get Started!

Interested individuals should first review the overview and consider a pre-assessment appointment if their dog is between one and three years old. Then, they can register for the Step 1 class via the online scheduling link. A confirmation email with class requirements will follow.