Therapy Dog Program
Our Dogs
Every puppy born at Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC) reflects generations of science-guided genetics focused on sound health and temperament. In our nursery, puppies receive structured, consistent care that includes body handling and varied environmental exposure to support early development and build confidence. Some dogs advance in our program to become guide, service, or facility dogs, while others are chosen for our purpose breeding program. Dogs who do not pursue these paths may begin a new journey in our Therapy Dog Program. One thing is certain—every dog finds their purpose.
Our Teams
Our Therapy Dog Program is open only to owners of eligible GDA | TLC dogs: career change; retired guide, service, or facility; and retired dogs from our purpose breeding program. They are Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers, guided by their handler, always leashed, fully vaccinated, certified, and insured. The therapy dogs and their volunteer handlers serve hundreds of people across a variety of settings, creating meaningful connections and spreading affection, comfort, and love.
If you have an eligible dog and are interested in learning more about this rewarding program, we invite you to contact Lori at LAndersen@guidedogsofamerica.org Once certified, teams receive a GDA | TLC therapy dog vest and access to the Therapy Dog Team Portal for member resources.
Community Partners
Bring the comfort and connection of a therapy dog visit to your facility or event. GDA | TLC Therapy Dog Teams are available to visit a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, medical centers, hospice settings, community events, support groups, veteran organizations, first responders, and family courts. Each team is trained to help reduce stress while providing comfort, meaningful interaction, and a calm, supportive presence.
If your organization would like to schedule a therapy dog visit, we invite you to submit a request and experience the benefits of the human–dog connection.
