On behalf of Therapy Dogs United, Inc., in Erie PA - I would like to clear up this confusion. Our agency subscribes to the national testing standard as administered by the AKC for their Canine Good Citizen test. Passing this test counts for one-half of our therapy dog evaluation. It is the AKC's directive that we test all dogs on what they deem an appropriate collar, which is a flat buckle collar. We are unable to deviate from their testing standards. However, we did directly ask the AKC for their policy when a medical condition may pose a danger to a dog during the testing process. Their response is in quotes below:
“Owner states Vet will not allow dog to wear collar. If the dog has an extreme medical condition and the owner is unable to participate using the collars listed, the AKC needs a signed statement from the Veterinarian (on their letterhead) explaining the medical condition. This can be provided to the AKC CGC testing official at the time of testing. The statement needs to include verification that the dog’s medical condition is so severe that he/she is not medically able to use a thin slip lead for a period of about 10 minutes (the estimated time it takes to complete the Canine Good Citizen Test). The AKC believes that a dog trained and ready for the CGC test will not pull or put pressure on the trachea. If the dog’s medical condition is verified, and it is suggested by a professional Veterinarian to forgo the approved collars, the Canine Good Citizen test can be given in the harness. However, absolutely no pulling on the harness is permitted, and will be grounds for failure.” Furthermore, TDU does NOT require a dog be testing on a flat buckle colar during the second half of our therapy dog evaluation. Certified dogs are also allowed to wear a harness during scheduled visits. I encourage your to visit our website at www.therapydogsunited.org for more information, or Email me directly with questions: pat@therapydogsunited.org Regards, Pat Van Zandt Christianson Executive Director Therapy Dogs United, Inc. Erie, PA