Cindy Kojima, retired in 2017 from the LISD after 34 years in education there, spoke to the club today and brought with her, Hachi, Masahiro’s pet to talk about Therapy Dogs. Hachi is a 7-year old Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Hachi is an official Theray Dog licensed through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs headquartered in Cheyene, Wyoming. To qualify, Hachi had to pass three tests in a medical care facility.
Hachi’s first visit as an official Therapy dog was on Valentine’s Day in 2018 at the Lenawee Care Medical facility. Then it was on to the schools in the area. The first was in April of 2018 at Michener Elementary, Cindy said, and with first and second graders. Cindi said she decided to begin Therapy Dog volunteering to help people and keep Hachi “socialized”. Therapy sessions, Cindy said, usually last between 5 and 10 minutes with individuals.
About ATD (from their website): ATD provides testing, certification, registration, support, and insurance for members who volunteer with dogs to visit hospitals, special needs centers, schools, nursing homes, and other facilities. We’re a network of caring volunteers who are willing to share our special canines to bring smiles and joy to people, young and old alike. Whether you and your dog are looking to become a certified therapy team or your facility would like to start a therapy dog program, Alliance of Therapy Dogs (ATD) is your #1 choice for pet therapy.