The most important member of any therapy dog team is the handler.  You’re the one who must make the commitment and then follow a schedule of regular visits.  To make sure it’s an activity that’s suited to you, find a therapy handler working nearby and ask if you can accompany her on several visits. Just you, without your dog.  Your best canine friend may or may not be a good therapy dog candidate. Besides having good obedience skills, he has to be willing to meet and act with strangers, work well with other dogs and react calmly to distractions and stress. To test your dogs basic temperament, socialize. Take him into the community to face new people and new situations.  He’ll let you know if he likes it.  Give him an extra dog treat for hard work and good behavior.