At The Train Station we partner with agencies in the community that are looking to have Therapy Dogs visit and impact the lives of those they serve. Many of our clients have aspired to and accomplished the goal of becoming certified through Therapy Dog International. Twice a year the Train Station staff brings independent, Certified Therapy Dog Evaluators to our community to conduct this National Certification. What is important to us as trainers is these evaluators have never met our client dogs before. This ensures a fair representation of how these dogs will perform in and among strangers.

Below is a list of traits, learned behaviors and expectations needed to be a sound Therapy Dog.

The animal should display calm energy, patience and endurance
Able to walk on a loose leash with little to no direction
Able to accept petting, stroking and touch in an inconsistent method and by all types of people
Able to maintain composure around excitability and strange noises
Fear no medical equipment
Teeth and tongue in the mouth only!
Show no interest in food with "leave it" command sound
Well groomed, good health, not perfumed, fresh breath, Human compliance as well
Aware of Cultural diversity

Read below the impetus to the development of Porter Hospital's Therapy Dog Program. You can make a difference-Join the team. Watch for testing dates and times to be announced.

"We had the pleasure of meeting Bentley and Barb on the sidewalk outside of Porter in April of 2005. Meeting him was the only bright spot in an otherwise horrible and emotionally painful day. When we lost dad two days later I was asked what institution I would like my friends to contribute to on Dad's behalf, since he had a variety of medical issues. I thought for a moment and, although all of the familiar organizations would have been excellent choices, I said that I wanted to find a way to help the organization that took care of Bentley, since it was his encounter that day that helped me so much. After some research, I contacted Cathy Pera and the idea of the Luther/Bentley Foundation became a reality"

The above excerpt is from the Brauer family. It is through their spirit and that of Barb O. and Bentley that we have an active Therapy Dog presence at Porter Hospital.