Who can be a member? In brief, MTD bylaws require members to be registered through nationally recognized organizations. The bylaws also provide for associate membership, which is a membership option for people who don't have a therapy dog. Friends and guests are always welcome at MTD meetings.
What types of dogs are used? All types! Some dogs are purebred, some are mixed breed, while others have been adopted or rescued. Any size or breed is acceptable providing the dog has a true heart for visiting with strangers, enjoying attention, being well mannered and responsive to its handler.
What are the health and grooming requirements? As each registering organization differs, members should contact their registering organization for current health requirements. In all cases, dogs must be clean and well-groomed for visits.
In what kind of activities do members of MTD participate? MTD members and their dogs visit nursing homes, assisted care facilities, retirement homes, Montrose Memorial Hospital, schools, and the Montrose Public Library. They may give programs at local service clubs. They also may participate in parades, fundraising events, walks, and other club activities and functions. The dog teams are also available for emergency or crisis situations in the community. MTD is always expanding.
What expenses are involved? MTD has no dues or fees, but each registering organization has its own requirements.
Is MTD affiliated with Morningstar Veterinary Clinic? Dr. Hooley was a founding member and sponsor of MTD, but the club is not affiliated in any way with Morningstar Veterinary Clinic. Despite this, there is no obligation to choose Dr. Hooley for veterinary services.
Are your dogs considered service dogs? If I join can I take my dog in restaurants and stores? No, our dogs are not service dogs. Service dogs provide a service or assistance to their owner as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Examples of service dogs are seeing-eye dogs for individuals who have impaired vision or dogs that comfort owners suffering from PTSD. Therapy dogs and their handlers volunteer to visit others to provide company, comfort, and smiles. Because of this distinction, therapy dogs do not get special clearance into restaurants, stores, airplanes, or apartments and assisted living facilities.
What types of dogs are used? All types! Some dogs are purebred, some are mixed breed, while others have been adopted or rescued. Any size or breed is acceptable providing the dog has a true heart for visiting with strangers, enjoying attention, being well mannered and responsive to its handler.
What are the health and grooming requirements? As each registering organization differs, members should contact their registering organization for current health requirements. In all cases, dogs must be clean and well-groomed for visits.
In what kind of activities do members of MTD participate? MTD members and their dogs visit nursing homes, assisted care facilities, retirement homes, Montrose Memorial Hospital, schools, and the Montrose Public Library. They may give programs at local service clubs. They also may participate in parades, fundraising events, walks, and other club activities and functions. The dog teams are also available for emergency or crisis situations in the community. MTD is always expanding.
What expenses are involved? MTD has no dues or fees, but each registering organization has its own requirements.
Is MTD affiliated with Morningstar Veterinary Clinic? Dr. Hooley was a founding member and sponsor of MTD, but the club is not affiliated in any way with Morningstar Veterinary Clinic. Despite this, there is no obligation to choose Dr. Hooley for veterinary services.
Are your dogs considered service dogs? If I join can I take my dog in restaurants and stores? No, our dogs are not service dogs. Service dogs provide a service or assistance to their owner as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Examples of service dogs are seeing-eye dogs for individuals who have impaired vision or dogs that comfort owners suffering from PTSD. Therapy dogs and their handlers volunteer to visit others to provide company, comfort, and smiles. Because of this distinction, therapy dogs do not get special clearance into restaurants, stores, airplanes, or apartments and assisted living facilities.
