CIA and CIT Dogs

A CANINE ASSISTED INTERVENTION DOG is a dog that is trained to provide affection, comfort and support to people, often in settings such as hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, libraries, hospices, or disaster areas. In contrast to assistance dogs, which are trained to assist specific patients with their day-to-day physical needs, therapy dogs are trained to interact with all kinds of people, not just their handlers.

In order for a dog to be a good candidate to become a CAI Dog and receive certification, they should be calm and social with strangers. They should also be able to adjust to loud noises and fast movements. They are tested on behaviors such as not jumping on people and being able to walk on a loose leash. Exact testing/certification requirements differ based on the organization’s requirements. Some organizations offer classes such as “distraction-proofing”, which strengthens the dog’s ability to focus and therapy training to help prepare the dog and the dog’s owner for therapy visits.

CAI dogs offer many benefits to people and patients. For example, therapy dogs help patients participate in physical activities. They also help encourage them to have cognitive, social, and communication goals.

A Critical Incident and Trauma Dog is the same as a CAI dog except they specialize in PTSD response. These dogs are used in locations like police stations and courtrooms to support those who have witnessed something quite traumatic. 

Hi, my name is Jack. I am a retired anxiety-disorder service dog. Due to some unforeseen medical problems, I could no longer be a service dog, Which meant I got to be a CAI dog alongside my brother Groot. I enjoy all the attention I get and all the love and bum scratches I get!