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A therapy dog is a dog who visits places like schools, hospitals and nursing homes. Therapy dog training in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie teaches dogs to provide comfort, support, and affection to the people they meet, particularly vulnerable people like children, seniors, patients in hospitals, and so on.
Therapy dogs are not service dogs. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to help a person who has a disability. This distinction is important because therapy dogs do not have the same access to public places like service dogs do. For example, service dogs can go into restaurants, but therapy dogs cannot. Therapy dogs still provide a valuable service and should receive therapy dog certification.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
Who Do Therapy Dogs Help?
Therapy dogs may be regular visitors to a variety of people and places, with hospitals and rehabilitation centers being among the most common. Children, in particular, respond positively to therapy dogs.
Seniors in assisted living or people with mental disabilities who live in facilities and experience feelings of isolation also see a lot of benefits from visiting with a therapy dog.
Besides providing valuable social opportunities and relieving anxiety, therapy dogs may even help lower blood pressure and heart rate in patients and the other people they visit.
Why Are Therapy Dogs Important?
Therapy dogs offer unconditional love, non-judgmental interaction, reduce stress, anxiety and loneliness, and provide an overall positive distraction to ailments. Research shows therapy dogs can have a positive effect on a patient’s mood, stress and pain levels during facility stays.
Young patients — children — seem to benefit most from working with therapy dogs. They are more motivated to participate in treatments, feel optimistic about the future, and experience an overall sense of calm when a certified therapy dog is present.
For people who may have a hard time socializing due to mental disabilities or their living situation, therapy dogs can promote social interaction within their community and help them to connect.
We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
I am a US Air Force veteran and have been looking for a service dog to help me with my mobility problems. Physicians at the Veterans Administration Medical Center felt the same and recommended that I get a service dog and subsequently filled out the necessary paperwork. I approached a veteran’s organization who trains service dogs for veterans, and I selected a dog from them which was a rescued 3-year-old German Shepherd. They recommended that I take her home to bond with her and to see if she was a suitable match, which I did. They said that they would call me within the following month after a training position opened, and then they would provide her training. I took my German Shepard home and bonded with her awaiting a call from this organization. After about four weeks I got a call from them and returned my German Shepard to them for training. I left her with them for almost three weeks which was hard because of the bond that I had established with her. After this three-week period, I got a call to pick up my service dog. She was not trained as I expected, they said that they tried but could not train her because she was “untrainable and not motivated enough for training”. I had no choice but to take my untrained service dog home. Because of the bond that I established with her, there was no way that I would give her up for another dog. I searched the internet for a solution and found an organization called Dog Training Elite-Treasure Coast. I contacted their office and scheduled an appointment for an initial interview with Shelley Walker. She came out to my home the following Saturday and did her evaluation. While she evaluated me, I evaluated her and felt that she was a caring as well as a professional individual. I felt that I could trust her with my new companion and who could be in my opinion she represented the organization I needed for training my dog. She ended the evaluation and stated she would contact. Veterans giving to heroes for their opinion. The following Monday I got a call from her, and she stated that Dog Training Elite-Treasure Coast would train my German Shepard and that the training would be funded by Veterans helping Hero’s. The training program began, and the initial daily training was provided for both of us at their Ft. Pierce location. As the training progressed, I found that my service dog responded well to their training protocol and was responding well to my commands at home. It was amazing how they were able to take an “untrainable and unmotivated “dog and turn it into a trained service dog who is making my life much easier. In addition. I had an excellent interaction with all the trainers and staff at Dog Training Elite-Treasure Coast. It is my opinion that they care about and become a part of the animals and the dog owners that they train. I strongly feel that all the animals that they train are trained in a highly professional manner. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone who is considering training their dog at any of the levels that they provide. Dr. Lee j. Abbott— Lee Abbott
Posted August 9th 2024
A very special place to take your 4 legged sweetie to learn good behavior. The trainers give each dog individual time and attention. My 7 month old mini Golden Doodle has learned so much. At the end of the day I was shown what she learned that day to practice with her. After our week of day camp, . group classes are offered. I need them as much as she does! Great experience. The learning continues for us both with the support of the staff. Glad we found them! 🐕— Christine Maglicic
Posted February 22nd 2024
When I had my initial consult with Shelly I had no idea what I was getting myself into and I couldn’t be happier. My health suddenly took a dive about two years ago and I have been trying to find a way to help with my disability. We bumped into another service dog handler and she told us about DTE. I met one of the owners during my consultation and she put me so much at ease. Such a kind, caring person who was so knowledgeable about dogs, and who made me feel so seen. Having a dynamic disability makes it hard for people to believe that I’m sick and she was just like “how can we help” and i felt so validated. Shelley and her team have taken my 2yd GSD and helped our relationship and helped us grow together in our service dog training journey, as well as give me the knowledge to train my other 3 dogs at home. My pup is happy to help me and I am happy to have helping hand and my best friend with me so I don’t have to be scared to go places on my own anymore. I would recommend them to any person in any circumstance. This team has given me community, and given my home such peace. Thank you ❤️ I am forever grateful to you guys— Grace Gabrielle Monteiro
Posted August 1st 2024
I am writing to express my heartfelt appreciation and to highly recommend the outstanding services provided by Dog Training Elite. Our beautiful 10-month-old Giant Schnauzer, Mimi, began her training journey with them a few months ago, and the results have been nothing short of remarkable. Initially, I had my doubts about whether Dog Training Elite could train Mimi to the level they described. Their promises seemed almost too good to be true, and I was skeptical about their ability to deliver. However, I am thrilled to say that they have far exceeded our expectations in every way. The dedication, hard work, and commitment of the Dog Training Elite team have been truly impressive. Mimi has been excelling in her training and is well on her way to becoming a Therapy Dog. The transformation we have seen in her behavior and skills is a testament to the exceptional training methods and the care provided by the team. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Shelly, Sam, Jessica, and the rest of the team at Dog Training Elite. Their professionalism, patience, and genuine love for the animals they work with are evident in everything they do. We cannot thank them enough for the positive impact they have had on our beloved Mimi. If you are considering training for your dog, I wholeheartedly recommend Dog Training Elite. Their services are truly outstanding, and they have made a significant difference in our lives and in Mimi's development. Thank you once again for your exceptional work. Vincent and May— May LaRose
Posted July 11th 2024
Such an amazing place with such amazing people and trainers. A place that Treats you like family. Their training techniques are amazing, they never stop learning and sharing their knowledge with you. If you stop learning, that’s because you stop showing up. As a veteran, I could not ask for better and knowing that I am always covered and that my dog will do what I need to when I need him There… Because not only do they train the dog, but they also train the human. It’s a package deal. You get out of it what you put into it and if you constantly work with your dog on what they teach You will have great results and have great results and such a loving companion. Honestly, I love this place and I love these people.— D Cortes
Posted June 19th 2024
Shelley and her crew are amazing! In just a few weeks she helped turn my high energy misbehaved Belgian malinois into a well behaved obedient dog that i can now proudly take any and everywhere with me. With her advanced skills in high energy dogs, Shelley was able to help me get these behaviors under complete control as a first time dog owner. The best part is, she comes to you! Being apart of the learning experience WITH my dog was the most important part to me and shelley exceeded my expectations in every aspect. I highly recommended dog training elite treasure coast if you are considering training of any kind for your furry friend!— marissa maniscalco
Posted June 14th 2024
We have a Maltipoo puppy. Having had another that lived 15 years, we knew all the possibilities of the combination of adorable and crazy. One evening, in Tradition Square, I saw a group of incredibly well behaved dogs of all sizes and shapes. I approached the person who seemed to be leading. It was Shelly. We immediately knew we wanted to work with her and the team. While small dogs seem cute, and are often permitted to jump, bark, and misbehave, we wanted better for our guy. Yes, it’s an investment of money, and time, but so worth it. Highly recommend Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast!— Randi Jones
Posted June 9th 2024
Polly and I started training in Jan 2024 when Polly was just 9 weeks old. The goal was/is to train her up to be a service dog. And we are all on our way having passed all the test to be a service dog in training. When I was having trouble house breaking her, one of the staff member Kristin took her into her home and house broke her for me. Shelly Walker also was able to help me secure some help paying for the training through a veterans charity. Shelly, Graham, Sam, Kristin and Tina couldn’t be more patient training me to work with Polly. Polly has excellent manners and is well behaved. Any dog we get in the future will be trained by these folks. Truly the last dog trainer you’ll neee— Scott Malone
Posted June 1st 2024
"We could not have had a more positive experience than with Dog Training Elite. All the trainers are extremely knowledgeable, professional, patient, and positive toward both not only our four legged friends but also their owners. We have learned so much and we are so grateful to have engaged Dog Training Elite as our trainers. We are very grateful for all of the diligence, care, and kindness that the Dog Training Elite trainers have shown our German Shepherd puppy Yana. I would easily and highly recommend them to anyone looking for professional training!— Norma Kolifrath
Posted May 25th 2024
We are so grateful for having found Dog Training Elite. Graham and Shelley have transformed our busy, energetic pack into a mindful and confident pack. We love the fact that we can now go on walks and outings with peace of mind and confidence to de-escalate unpredictable situations . The group session today was a blast and gave us the opportunity to see other owners successfully training their dogs as well. We will absolutely be sending everyone we can in their direction. Thank you and your team so much for everything and we will see you for another group session soon! ☺️— Veronica S
Posted May 18th 2024
I am forever grateful to the staff. Their expertise combined with their compassion and understanding of animals is superior. They have given me the tools I need to continue with the training of my dog— Dolores Pilla
Posted April 25th 2024
Wow, there’s no words to describe the dramatic change in a very reactive, scared dog, transformed into a confident, well behaved and loved family pet! DTE and the entire staff are dedicated, caring, knowledgeable, professional trainers even with our challenging guy and we can’t thank them enough for making Rocket an enjoyable member of our family. Thanks DTE and I’m glad to be a part of your family and highly recommend anyone who is looking for a well mannered dog training group to consider DTE as their first and only choice. Special thanks to Graham who saw Rockets potential, Sam who finally got the Rocket mans kisses she was looking for, Kristin who put up with the ever so unpredictable attitudes of Rocket in the mornings, Tina and Shelley. You guys ROCK! Ronnie, Chris and Rocket— Chris Levy
Posted April 17th 2024
Elite Dog Training is all that you would hope for in a training Center. I brought in my 1.6 year old German Shepherd. The trainers are very friendly and my dog enjoyed all of his visits. He picked up his lessons and seemed happy to learn more each visit. I am very happy with our choice in using Elite Dog Training.— Tropicalwallart Hurricane Rita
Posted April 14th 2024
We (my husband and myself) came across this group during a veteran event and was really impressed with the dogs they brought to demonstrate what they could do. At the time we didn't have a dog with any training needs, but they definitely left an impression. Later that year we adopted a GROWING puppy (now 70lbs) and thought we could handle training him on our own. Unfortunately, we learned through an embarrassing situation that our dog was very "rude" and not very confident in his surroundings. After that, I picked up the phone and got scheduled right away to see if he was a good fit for the program. He was a great fit and we've been going strong 4 months now (1 month of one-on-one training and 3 months of weekly follow-ups). We are no longer afraid to take our dogs in public and our pup that was trained through this program has actually become the most well-behaved dog I've ever had. I am so thankful for the team at DTE for giving me and especially my dog piece of mind and a closer relationship.— Julissa Escobar
Posted February 22nd 2024
I've been very pleased with the one-on-one instruction. Sam is flexible and understanding, patient and professional. Buddy graduated and we have been attending group classes. At the center and in the park here in PSL, the trainers are committed and centered. We are most definitely glad we made the investment in Buddy's training. I would recommend DTETC to anyone!— Susan Barrett Finazzo
Posted March 2nd 2024
I started with Elite Training of the Treasure Coast with my 5 month old of Golden Retriever, Maggie. Over the 6 weeks training classes; my dog knows sit, down, place, come, and heel. The head trainer has taught me how to begin & strength my bond with Maggie. This has allowed training to go smoother and to see the results of our hard work together. I highly recommend Elite Dog training of the Treasure Coast with your dog. It has allowed Maggie to come out in public with a puppy with good manners and calm. The picture below is a group of graduates on an outing at the Vero Car show in (Feb 2024).— Mary Massie
Posted February 28th 2024
Dog Training Elite has been amazing! My dog started training with them about 7 months ago and his behavior has improved dramatically. I don’t have to worry about him tormenting our cats anymore! All of the instructors are calm, professional and enthusiastic. I highly recommend this company for all dog training needs!— Karla Antonio
Posted February 24th 2024
First rate experience. Office help great always calls back. Trainer Shelly knows her stuff. Helped us with Rosie to give her confidence to stay home alone. Trained and explained every step, we went through. We would recommend Dog Training Elite!— Nancy Briganti
Posted February 21st 2024
I would like to rate my experience as amazing Dog Training Elite has taking every step and helping me become a better dog handler and also my dog just passed the canine good citizen and public access test a big thanks to Shelly and Sam for your service and support— Deb
Posted January 9th 2024
Wonderful people who care so much about their clients and their dogs. They are top tier trainers!— Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio
Posted January 8th 2024
How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?
If you have felt the benefits of owning a dog, you may feel inspired to help more people feel the unconditional love, joy and support your dog provides. However, having a friendly, loving personality isn’t enough for a dog to qualify as a therapy dog. Some other qualifications to consider are:
- The age of your dog. Puppies do not make good therapy animals.
- How obedient your dog is. It’s important your dog listens to you and obeys basic commands. Dogs that go through obedience training with Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast have the perfect foundation to go onto therapy dog training, as long as they are old enough.
- How social your dog is. Your dog may be affectionate with you — but are they affectionate with strangers? Do they like to receive attention from strangers, particularly petting?
Therapy Dog Handlers
As a dog owner, it’s important to reflect on whether you would like to become a therapy dog handler as well. If you enjoy connecting with people, becoming a therapy dog handler may be a great fit. You can also choose where to volunteer to better suit your interests — if you like kids, volunteer to visit schools or children’s hospitals. If you prefer to work with older people, then sign up to visit senior living centers.
Once you’ve determined that becoming a therapy dog handler and helping your dog become a therapy dog is the right move for the two of you, you’re ready to start therapy dog training. The trainers of Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast are experts in the behaviors needed in a therapy dog and will help you and your dog either brush up on or master behaviors such as “leave it,” “watch me,” loose-leash walking and not jumping on other people.
To help your dog become well socialized, you may consider also signing up for one of Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast’s group obedience classes. A group class environment is also beneficial because it helps your dog learn to be obedient when there are a lot of distractions around, a crucial skill for a therapy dog.
Once you’ve completed initial training, you’re ready to apply for therapy dog certification in Treasure Coast / Port St. Lucie. However, it is important to note that this certification is not the end. It’s important to stay on top of your dog’s training and continue to help them be the best therapy dog they can be.
Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast Partners & Honors
Why do Therapy Dog Training with Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast?
The Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast training method stands out because of its emphasis on positive reinforcement. Dogs are never punished for bad behavior, instead they are rewarded for good behavior. This kind of training makes a huge difference in your relationship with your dog, and will make a difference in how your dog interacts with other people.
The balanced training method of Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast fosters a dog’s naturally loving and obedient nature. Focusing on positive reinforcement and rewarding good behavior helps build a strong bond between dog and owner built on love and trust. This foundation in turn becomes a great foundation for dog and owner to become a fabulous therapy team providing an invaluable service to the community.
If you feel therapy dog certification is right for you and your dog, get started by contacting Dog Training Elite Treasure Coast. Request your free training demo and in-home assessment today.
