On Tuesday, February 10, members of the Sherman Hospital Animal Assisted Therapy Program (AAT) will host an information seminar about the world of animal-assisted therapy and activities. This free event will take place from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m in the Sherman Hospital Assembly Hall.

“Certified therapy dogs provide visiting and therapy services in a variety of settings, from libraries and nursing homes to schools and healthcare settings, including Sherman Hospital,” says Tina Link, Manager of Community Outreach, Sherman Health. “This seminar will teach the fundamentals of AAT, and the positive affects these volunteer programs have in the community.”

During the seminar, members of the Sherman Hospital AAT program will explain how to prepare you and your pet for therapy work, temperament and obedience requirements, and how to obtain certification for you and your pet.  The team will also provide a live demonstration of what basic obedience looks like using a certified dog.

Professional dog trainers from CareDog Training of Dundee, Ill., and a therapy certification volunteer from Therapy Dogs, Inc., will speak on how to begin the process of becoming involved in animal assisted therapy in your community.

While all interested dog owners and friends are welcome to attend this free seminar, please keep your four-footed companions at home during this initial information seminar. For more information and to register, please call 800-397-9000 or visit www.ShermanHealth.com .