Therapy Dogs International (TDI) was founded in 1976.  TDI was formed so that dogs could be certified and registered as volunteer Therapy Dogs.  All dogs and handlers are tested and evaluated by qualified and certified Evaluators.  Dogs must pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test which involves:

  - accepting a friendly stranger, showing no sign of resentment/shyness and not breaking position
  - sitting politely for petting by a stranger
  - will welcome being groomed and examined by a stranger
  - walking, turning, and halting on a loose leash
  - move about politely in pedestrian traffic without straining on the leash
  - sit and down on command; staying in place
  - coming when called
  - behave politely around other dogs, showing no more than a casual interest
  - confident when faced with common distractions
  - will maintain its training and good manners without the owner present
  - willingness of the dog to visit a person

Dogs must also pass additional TDI requirements, such as:

  - acceptance of medical equipment such as a wheelchair, crutches, walker, etc.
  - confident when exposed to people walking with an uneven gait, breathing heavily, wheezing, etc.
  - leave-it:  walk on a loose leash past food on the ground, ignoring it
  - work well around all types of populations, including children

Below is from the Recreational Therapist at Perry Point Veterans Hospital:

I have had many Visiting pets come to the facility over my years here.  Diesel is the most well behaved pet visitor I have ever had the pleasure to work with.  He seems to be able to "read" the residents reaction to him and knows when to go up close and when to stay away.  He loves to be patted and shakes hands readily.

I would recommend any population to have Diesel come and visit them.  He is so gentle and friendly, he makes everyone feel loved!