Testing & Certification

This option is for anyone wanting to make therapy dog visits to facilities in the community (as volunteers). Certification provides insurance for those visits, therapy dog identification, and full membership with Therapy Dogs of Vermont.

The entire process of certification involves three basic steps (please note that your tester and/or evaluator may also provide you with additional instructions for each phase of the certification).

STEP 1: Request a Testing Appointment

TDV will contact you via e-mail to schedule your test once the online application has been completed and the test fee paid.

Information related to the Non-Refundable Fee:

This $20.00 non-refundable fee for testing supports TDV's continuing efforts to provide therapy dog support and companionship throughout the many communities we serve.

  • Upon successful completion of all certification requirements, this fee will be applied to the dues for your first year of membership.
  • If you cancel your appointment less than 48 hours prior to your test, do not appear at your test, or fail the test; your fee will NOT be refunded. If you still wish to be certified, you would need re-apply and pay the testing fee again.
  • If you choose not to be certified and want to withdraw your application, the fee is not refundable. (Please be sure that you understand the requirements for certification before you apply!) If you have any questions about the process, how long it takes, and where you must travel to be tested and evaluated, e-mail us!).
  • If you cancel your test three times or more, TDV reserves the right to delete your application (and the non refundable test fee will be retained by TDV).
  • Applications will automatically expire within one year of your application date and your fee will not be refunded. You may re-apply.

STEP 2: Preparing for Your Test

  • Download, read, and fill out the forms in the Certification Packet
  • Review the testing guidelines within the packet to ensure that you understand the requirements.
  • Bring these items to the test:
    • Certification Packet
    • Proof of rabies vaccination

Your tester will communicate any additional information needed for the test and/or directions to the testing location by email in advance of the test date.

STEP 3: Prepare for your Evaluations

Your evaluator will communicate any additional information needed for the evaluation and/or directions to the testing location by email in advance of your first evaluation.