Schenectady Chapter Therapy Dogs

Welcome to Schenectady Chapter Therapy Dogs

Elaine Smith founded Therapy Dogs International in 1980 in New Jersey. The purpose of TDI was to put a little sunshine into the lives of those who are institutionalized. Therapy Dogs fulfill this need as they visit nursing homes and specialized facilities for adults and childrenon a regular basis. Dogs of all breeds, large and small are used as well as mix breeds for therapy dogs. They are carefully selected for soundness of temperament and must pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen test with TDI modifications administered by a certified Therapy Dog International evaluator.

What does a Therapy dog do? It has been clearly established that a visit from a dog can work wonders in bringing stimulation to those who otherwise stress. A Therapy Dog visit can stimulate conversation between residents, family and staff members as well as encourage interest in physical therapy. A specialized group of Therapy Dogs (Disaster Stress Relief dogs) are often used in such cases as 9/11, the Oklahoma bombing and other disasters for the victim's families and the rescuers at these sites.

For more information on Therapy Dogs International and/or our local chapter contact:

Jennifer Paley, Chapter Secretary
374-9990 or email: jen70mar@aol.com
Ann Kaczkowski, Chapter Director, at
(518) 842-0421 or email: javadog1@hughes.net