Seminars and Activities


The Great Spinone, Have a roaring good time!

The Great Spinone, Have a roaring good time!

Put That Spinone Smile to Work:

Therapy Dog Evaluations at the 2027 National Specialty


Your Therapy Team Roadmap

We're excited to offer official Pet Partners team evaluations during the 2027 National Specialty, giving you and your Spinone the opportunity to begin your therapy dog journey while attending the National.

To participate, you'll need to complete a few Pet Partners requirements before evaluation day. Most of the preparation can be completed before you arrive, so you'll be ready to focus on you and your dog when it's time to test.

Take these six steps:

Step 1: Create Your Pet Partners Account

The first step is to create your Pet Partners volunteer account.

Create an Account

Step 2: Complete the Handler Course

A successful therapy team starts with a knowledgeable handler.

The Pet Partners Therapy Animal Handler Course prepares you for the unique experiences of therapy visits, teaches you how to advocate for your dog, and helps you create safe, positive interactions for everyone involved.

Important: Completion of the Handler Course is required before you can participate in an evaluation.

Learn More About the Handler Course

Step 3: Complete the Animal Health Screening

Pet Partners requires a health screening form completed by your veterinarian to ensure your dog is healthy and ready for therapy work.

Step 4: Complete Your Evaluation at Nationals

You and your Spinone will participate together in an in-person Pet Partners evaluation during the 2027 National Specialty.

Step 5: Complete Your Background Check

All Pet Partners handlers are required to pass a background check.

Step 6: Register Your Team

Once you've successfully completed the evaluation and remaining requirements, you'll pay the registration fee and officially become a registered Pet Partners therapy animal team.

Ready to Put That Spinone Smile to Work?

If you would like your Spinone evaluated during the 2027 National Specialty, please complete the form below.

Spinoni are known for their gentle temperaments, easygoing nature, and love of people. If you've ever thought your dog has a special gift for making others smile, this is your opportunity to channel that gift into meaningful volunteer work. Join us at the 2027 National Specialty and take the first step toward becoming a registered Pet Partners therapy animal team.

Whether you're looking for a new activity to enjoy with your dog or a way to give back to your community, therapy work can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Pet Partners therapy teams visit hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, libraries, senior living communities, and other facilities where a friendly canine visit can brighten someone's day.



Evaluation Day Checklist

Questions? Please contact:

Jenny Huizinga

Before You Arrive

To be eligible for an evaluation at the National Specialty, you must complete:

  1. Create your Pet Partners account

  2. Complete the Pet Partners Therapy Animal Handler Course

Please note: Handlers who have not completed the Handler Course prior to their evaluation will not be permitted to test.

Please bring the following items with you:

  • Completed Handler Questionnaire

  • Proof of your dog's current rabies vaccination

  • Approved collar or harness and leash

  • Pet Partners Handler Course Completion Certificate (or Pet Partners Badge if renewing)

  • Grooming brush

  • Closed-toe shoes

  • Treats for the "Offered a Treat" exercise

  • Parent or guardian (if the handler is between 10 and 16 years of age)

  • Letter of Accommodation from Pet Partners (if applicable)

Resources


Want to learn more or see what the evaluation process looks like? These resources can help you prepare.

Every therapy team starts with a friendly dog and a willing handler. If your Spinone loves meeting new people and sharing a smile, we hope you'll join us at the 2027 National Specialty and discover where that smile can take you.