In April of 2002, the Leonberger Club of America instituted an award program that would celebrate and award those Leonbergers and their owners who devoted countless hours to participating in pet therapy programs. The LCA Therapy Award program was supported by many, many members, most of whom attended a board meeting to specifically state their support of this program. An ad-hoc committee was formed consisting of John McRae, Beth O'Connor, Tom Atwood, and Pat Troise. John volunteered to administer the program, tracking all of the member visits reported to him as well as designing the forms to do so.
The LCA is particularly proud of this award as it exemplifies that which is the best in our Leonbergers, their ability to touch lives, heal hearts and make the world a better place simply be being there. While the LCA offers many competitive titles and programs, it is the Therapy Award that we hold dearest to our hearts.
Entering into any therapy work is not to be taken lightly. You and your Leonberger must work as a team. Your Leo must be trained in basic obedience and comfortable in many environments. Leos are particularly well suited for Therapy work, given their gentle disposition, love of children, and size (easy to pet from a bed!). Doing therapy work with your Leonberger is a gift whose value is priceless.
For further information on the LCA Therapy Dog Award, information on national therapy organizations, stories of our Leos and their Therapy work, as well as a listing of the current LCA Therapy Dog Award Leonbergers, please click on the links below.
