A very important part of the CPDTC is a group called the Central Pennsylvania Heelers, coordinated by Loyal Jones, and assisted by Lettie Davis. The "Heelers" are a group of dogs and handlers, who have passed a test put forth by Therapy Dog International, Inc. and are qualified of handling and temperment, to be able to visit people in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and other organizations. If you are interested in what it takes for a dog to be certified as a Therapy Dog under TDI, please investigate the link above.

In the CPDTC, we have two TDI-approved evaluators who routinely test dogs and handlers for Therapy status. Evie Stackhouse (stacky07@adelphia.net) and Jim Hornberger (jamargsp@ptd.net) have years of experience with various breeds and do TDI testing in the central Pennsylvania area. To see when TDI testing is occurring in your area, please visit the TDI website above and look for the testing schedule. If you would like discuss TDI testing with one of our evaluators, please send them an email at the addresses listed above.

The "Heelers" typically perform two types of therapy visits: "Walk-thrus" are room-to-room visits in nursing homes and hospitals to people who would like to receive visits from dogs. "Demos" are performed in a group setting, where we demonstate a variety of obedience routines, and finish with a "Doggie Square Dance".

In addition, a number of members make additional "solo visits", taking their dog to places such as hospitals, nursing homes, or to "Children Reading to Dogs" programs as their schedules permit.

If you or your group are interested in discussing a visit, please contact Loyal Jones (loyaljones@hotmail.com).