Business & Tech

ARF Set To Offer Therapy Dog Training

"Therapy dogs play a significant role in improving the well-being of individuals in various settings."

The therapy dog training program will be held on Sunday, December 10.
The therapy dog training program will be held on Sunday, December 10. (Lisa Finn / Patch)

EAST HAMPTON, NY — If you've ever thought that your pup might be the perfect therapy dog, you'll soon have the chance to bring your four-footed friend for free training.

The Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, or ARF Hamptons, is providing an opportunity for dog owners and enthusiasts to make a difference in the lives of others through therapy dog training.

The "transformative" therapy dog training program will be led by Tom Tulipan of Pet Partners, and will be held on Sunday, December 10 at ARF, located at 124 Daniels Hole Road in East Hampton, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., a release said.

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The comprehensive session will equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to prepare their dogs for therapy work, "allowing them to bring joy and comfort to individuals in need," ARF said.

"Tom Tulipan, a certified Pet Partners instructor, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to
this training. His passion for improving the lives of both humans and animals through the power
of therapy dogs is unparalleled, and attendees can expect to benefit from his extensive insights," ARF said.

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In addition to the full day of training on December 10, participants will have the opportunity to have their dogs evaluated on Sunday, January 14 and 21, 2024, to determine their readiness for therapy work. Those evaluations will be conducted at the ARF facility as well, in the new William P. Rayner Training Center, ARF said.

"Not only is this training a valuable opportunity to make a positive impact in your community, but it's also accessible to all dog owners, as the classes are being offered free of charge," ARF said.

Donations are encouraged, however, to support ARF's ongoing efforts to rescue and rehabilitate animals in need.

"We are thrilled to be able to provide this valuable training opportunity in partnership with Pet
Partners," says Kim Nichols, executive director at ARF. "Therapy dogs play a significant role in
improving the well-being of individuals in various settings, and we believe this training program
will help expand the pool of therapy dogs in our community. We are grateful for Tom Tulipan's
dedication to this cause and his willingness to share his knowledge with us."

Space for the therapy dog training program is limited, so interested individuals are encouraged
to reserve their spot early. The training on December 10 will take place in the conference room. To register or learn more about the opportunity, click here, call 631-537-0400 or email info@arfhamptons.org.

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