One of IPOC's
oldest and most important programs is Therapaws. Dogs and handlers must pass a
modified Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test to prove they have the socialization
skills necessary to visit and interact with patients in nursing and continuous
care facilities, and with young children in schools. These visits are conducted
weekly or twice weekly depending on members schedules. Demand for these visits
have far outnumbered members abilities to provide time for them, so new
Therapaws members are most welcomed.
Therapaws members
must be club members in good standing and the dogs must have been tested and
observed for proper interaction with visitees.
