Q: What does it mean to be a certified therapy dog?
A: To become a certified therapy dog I was specially trained to work alongside my handlers to provide comfort, emotional support, and companionship to people in a variety of settings. We visit places such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, libraries, funeral homes, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations to help reduce stress, provide reassurance, and brighten someone’s day.
Q: What is my specialty as a certified therapy dog?
A: For me, my specialty is grief therapy in funeral homes. I work specifically out of Prout Funeral home in Verona, NJ and Dancy Funeral Home in Caldwell, NJ. I provide comfort to grieving families who just lost their loved ones. But, I also really love to get out and about in the community. I visit local libraries and read with kids, nursing homes, and am an official supporter at Verona’s Fourth and Fifth Grade Spelling Bee!
Q: How did you become a certified therapy dog?
A: Before coming to my furever home in New Jersey, I lived with a trainer and we worked full-time for months on obedience and commands training. At the end of this copious training, I had to pass a bunch of tests to make sure I was ready to go home. Once I was home with my family in Verona, I had to assist them in becoming certified therapy dog handlers.
Q: What makes a good therapy dog? Can any dog become a therapy dog?
A: Not every pup is cut out for therapy work—and that’s okay! A good therapy dog enjoys being around people, feels comfortable in crowds, and stays calm when situations are unfamiliar or emotional. It also takes patience, a gentle personality, and a love of meeting new fur-ends.
Q: What makes being a certified therapy dog so special?
A: Being a certified therapy dog is special because of all the wonderful people I get to meet. Every day brings new faces, new stories, and new opportunities to make someone smile. The best part of my job isn’t getting treats or butt scratches—although I certainly enjoy those! It’s knowing that a gentle nuzzle, a wagging tail, or simply sitting quietly beside someone can bring comfort during a difficult moment. Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. I may be a pup, but every day I have the chance to spread love, offer comfort, and remind people they are never alone. That’s what makes being a certified therapy dog so special.
Q: How old are you? How old were you when you came to NJ?
A: I am 5 years old now but when I came to New Jersey I was only seven months old! Isn’t that crazy?
Q: Why do you have to wear a vest when you work?
A: My family puts my vest on when it is time for me to work. It is like my superhero cape—it helps me understand that I have an important job to do! Once it is on, I am ready to offer comfort to anyone who may need a little extra support. My family says I seem to have a sixth sense for knowing who needs me and when.
Q: Why do kids love you so much?
A: Kids love me for many different reasons, but the biggest one is that I’m always there to be a comforting fluffy friend when they need one most. When a child is grieving, they may not have the words to express their feelings. Losing a loved one can be confusing, sad, and overwhelming. That’s where I come in. My calm presence, gentle nature, and unconditional affection can help ease their pain and give them a sense of comfort without needing to say a single word. Sometimes the best comfort doesn’t come from words—it comes from a loyal friend who is happy to sit beside you, listen without judgment, and offer unconditional love.
Thanks for getting to know me! I take my job very seriously—but I always make time for treats, belly rubs, and making new friends along the way. To learn more about what I do, visit dancyfuneralhome.com, and follow my adventures on Instagram and Facebook at @morrisvprout. I hope to see you around town soon!
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