The term "pet therapy" may put some in the mind of a pooch stretched out on a psychologist's couch, but in fact, it refers to a growing practice of using loving companion animals to make connections with people who need a little TLC. Volunteers who train with their pets to become animal-assisted therapists can bring countless benefits to people in shelters, hospitals and retirement homes, as well as reap the personal rewards that come from making a difference in people's lives.

Daniela Ortner is the founder and Executive Director of Create-A-Smile, an animal therapy organization that trains and certifies animals and handlers for therapy sessions at hospitals, nursing homes and battered women shelters. She has a master's degree in clinical psychology and is pursuing her PHD in the same subject. Here she offers information and advice for people wishing to become certified pet therapists:

• Help in the community.
  With training and certification, you and your pet can become an animal assisted therapy team. It's a great way to volunteer in the community and connect with wonderful people you might not otherwise get to meet.
  
• Find programs online.
  The Web is perhaps the best place to find information about companies that can train you and your pet. Look for a well-rounded organization that offers you liability insurance as well as an established training program.
  
• Learn proper behavior.
  The training prepares you and your dog or cat for a therapy visit. You'll learn how to behave with patients, including specific lessons like the appropriate ways to approach someone who is in a wheelchair.
  
• Keep your certification.
  To keep your certification current, you'll likely have to volunteer for a minimum of 24 visits over two years.
  
• Bring joy and healing.
  Pet therapy visits bring patients great joy, as well as all the physical rehabilitation that comes with handling animals.
  
• Bond with your pet.
  Therapy will also give you a great feeling of accomplishment and give you plenty of time to bond with your pet. The animals love it as well, as they have an important job to do, and enjoy being the center of attention.

For more information about animal assisted therapy, check out the following organizations or websites:

Create-A-Smile
www.create-a-smile.org

Animal Therapy.net
www.animaltherapy.net

Dog-Play: Therapy Dogs and Visiting Pets
www.dog-play.com/therapy

Delta Society: Therapy Animals: Programs and Services
www.deltasociety.org

Censhare: Animal Assisted Therapy
www.censhare.umn.edu

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