We believe that the “golden triangle” composed of therapists, therapy dog handlers (the owners of therapy dogs), and therapy dogs is a crucial collaborative relationship for delivering high-quality animal-assisted therapy! This philosophy aligns with the development of our association, where we place great emphasis on the professionalism of therapists and the training of our therapy dog team (THERAPAWS team). It is through this approach that we can deliver the best to those we aim to help.
According to the international definition, those suitable for conducting animal-assisted therapy must be licensed or registered professionals in the helping professions, and they also need to undergo systematic training, education, and supervision in animal-assisted interventions.
Qualifications of the HKAATA Animal-Assisted Therapy Team:
Animal-Assisted Therapy Training and Certification for the Therapist Team:
Animal Behavior, Welfare, and related qualifications:
HKAATA Animal-Assisted Therapy Dogs (Ther@paws)
Ther@paws must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have up-to-date vaccinations/antibodies. Additionally, they need to undergo an annual physical examination by a registered veterinarian to ensure they are fit for the role of a therapy dog.
Furthermore, HKAATA Ther@paws must renew their therapy dog qualifications annually to ensure that the dogs are in the best physical and mental condition for therapy dog services. Qualified Ther@paws therapy dogs will wear therapy dog uniforms during service, while their owners will wear handler uniforms.
Each Ther@paws animal-assisted therapy dog team (dog and owner) must pass the therapy dog assessment test based on international standards to officially become a certified animal-assisted therapy dog team. They are required to renew their certification annually and update their qualifications.
