We continue our work with Edward Hospital.  To date we have trained over 100 teams that have performed over 65,000 visits with zero nosocomial  infections. 

Jim and I want to thank all our therapy dog friends for making this the best part of our profession. 

History

In 2001, Midwest Canine Academy was contracted by Edward Hospital to create a training program for their new Animal Assisted Therapy Dog Program.  To date (see photos) we have evaluated, trained, and certified over 90 dogs for their program. 

Since 2002, I have trained over 145 dogs and people for therapy dog work.  I also trained 10 dogs for use in very specific, therapeutic programs for the Child/Adolescent Units, S.A.F.E Alternatives (for treatment of individuals who self-injure), eating disorders and adult inpatient programs at Linden Oaks Hospital.

Edward Hospital & Health Services is proud to be one of the largest animal-assisted therapy programs in the country.   Their program has been cited as "best practice" by Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organization (JCAHO).  Visit www.edward.org. 

Patty Kaplan, the creator and director of the program, has built the largest and most prestigious program in the United States.  If you are interested in creating your own hospital program, visit www.paws4therapy.com.

The Sterling and Dixon area needs more dogs! 

Contact Sue Jakobs at 815-590-8008.

Therapy Dogs are not Service dogs.  Therapy dogs do NOT have the right to public access!   Only highly trained and certified SERVICE dogs have that right and those dogs carry proof of certification.