Therapy Dog FAQs
Learn more about therapy dogs
and Britan's special work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about therapy dogs
and how Britan brings comfort, connection, and smiles.
What is a therapy dog?
Therapy dogs are friendly, well-trained dogs who visit schools, libraries, hospitals, and other places to provide comfort, support, and joy to people. They are not service dogs, but they play and important roll in improving emotional well-being.
What is the difference between a therapy dog and a service dog?
A therapy dog provides comfort and joy to groups of people in public facilities like hospitals and schools, whereas a service dog is individually trained to perform specific work or tasks for a single person with a disability.
How did Britan become a therapy dog?
Britan’s father was a therapy dog, so perhaps helping others runs in the family! Because Britan has such a calm demeanor, is friendly with strangers and enjoys meeting new people, Barbara enrolled him in a Canine Good Citizen class to see whether therapy work would be a good fit. After completing the class, he passed a series of supervised visits with an Alliance of Therapy Dogs tester and became a certified therapy dog.
How long did Britan's therapy dog training take?
Britan’s Canine Good Citizen course lasted several weeks. After completing the course, he participated in three supervised visits with an Alliance of Therapy Dogs tester before becoming certified.
Where can therapy dogs visit?
Therapy dogs may be invited to visit schools, libraries, hospitals, assisted-living communities, nursing homes, airports and other settings where people may feel anxious, frightened or lonely. Their gentle presence can provide comfort, companionship and a welcome reason to smile.
What does Britan do during a therapy visit?
During a therapy visit, Britan sits calmly while people talk to him and pet him. When appropriate, he may even sit on someone’s lap or beside a patient in a hospital bed. Barbara keeps hold of his leash throughout every visit and carefully supervises each interaction, making sure Britan remains comfortable and does not get too close to anyone’s face.
How did Britan inspire Barbara's children's books?
Britan’s real-life experiences as a therapy dog inspired Barbara to share his story with young readers. Through his books, children can follow Britan’s adventures while learning about kindness, compassion and the special ways therapy dogs bring comfort and happiness to others.
What dog breed is Britan?
Britan is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Can schools, libraries, or community groups invite Barbara for a reading?
Absolutely! To get in touch with Barbara simply fill out her contact form and she will respond back to you as quickly as she can.
Where can I purchase the Britan books?
Britan's books are sold online by many different online booksellers, but Amazon may be the easiest way to purchase the books.
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