One of the most amazing things about pet therapy is the wide range of people who can benefit from this simple, and free wellness service. Children, the elderly, college students, and even adults working in a corporate environment can all benefit from a calming, loving interaction with a PAWS of CNY therapy dog. That’s why on April 12, PAWS of CNY volunteers attended a corporate wellness event at POMCO in East Syracuse with their therapy dogs.

[Read more…] about Therapy Dogs Attend Corporate Wellness Event at POMCO

PAWS of CNY is pleased to participate in the Human Library event at Liverpool Public Library. Therapy dog Ellie, and her mom Peggy will be available during the event on Monday, April 10 from 6 – 8 p.m. If you’re interested in learning about PAWS of CNY, and what it takes to certify your dog or cat for pet therapy, this is your chance.
[Read more…] about Meet Therapy Dog Ellie at the Human Library

**Update: Registration for this class is now closed. Please check back for information on our summer session **

Think your dog has what it takes to be a therapy dog? Wondering if you could both benefit from a few training courses so that you ace the evaluation test? Our Therapy Dog Training Course registration is now open!

Therapy Dog Class
Led by Danielle Basciano, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC, ACCBC
5/11/2017 – 6/8/2017
8 p.m.
Cicero Animal Clinic
Click here to register.

This five-week therapy dog training course is designed to prepare dogs to pass the PAWS of CNY certification, as well as to provide ongoing education to dogs and handlers who are already certified. The course is not mandatory in order for a dog to be evaluated. It is, however, encouraged for dogs who are good candidates for pet therapy work but may need assistance perfecting some of the certification criteria or for folks who just want to learn more about what it takes to be a certified therapy dog team.

Some of the topics this course will cover include:
– Signs of stress and body language
– Evaluation test items
– Handling skills and focus work
– How to read and respond appropriately to canine stress signals
– Introduction to and handling around medical apparatus
– Visit simulation to practice new skills (last class)

Classes are taught by Danielle Basciano, former President of PAWS of CNY, and a certified professional dog trainer.

Class Details:
Cost: $100.00
Class Length: 5 sessions
Class Size: up to 8 dogs

Click here to register.

PLEASE NOTE: The PAWS of CNY Certification provides accreditation for handlers and their dogs to attend PAWS of CNY sanctioned AAA and AAT pet therapy visits only. PAWS of CNY does not certify emotional support dogs, guide dogs, and other service dogs.

We recently had the pleasure of meeting Syracuse University broadcast journalism students Erica Lim, Caitlin Shalhoub, and Dani Wolfenson who produced a wonderful educational piece about our organization. Thank you so much to Erica, Caitlin, and Dani for helping us tell our story.

[Read more…] about Syracuse University Students Educate on the Benefits of Pet Therapy

The papers, the exams, the studying, and the stress. It’s enough to make any college student feel anxious. To help students relax and feel at least a momentary sense of ease as they enter into finals week, the residence hall leadership team at Day Hall coordinated a pet therapy visit from members of PAWS of CNY.
[Read more…] about Syracuse University Students De-Stress with Therapy Dogs Before Finals