Meet Pippin
Therapy Dog in Training | Double Doodle
Pippin is a one-year-old golden double doodle (half Goldendoodle, half Labradoodle) and the newest member of our therapy team. Named after the hobbit from The Lord of the Rings, he is small, curious, and convinced that everyone he meets is a new friend. At 15 pounds he is brave too, at least once he has checked that his big sister Kieva has his back. He loves cuddles, and he is delighted to learn they are part of his job. He also loves toys, especially new ones, and is always on the lookout for his next favorite.
Therapy dog work asks a lot of a dog. It means staying settled in new situations, reading people’s cues, and offering comfort without needing anything in return. Research suggests that a well-trained therapy animal can help ease anxiety, build a sense of safety, and make it easier to connect in session. Pippin still has plenty of puppy energy, so he is in ongoing training to build the manners, patience, and calm temperament he needs to work safely in a therapeutic setting. At home, Kieva is helping show him how it’s done. He is working toward certification through the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals (AAAIP), with a goal of full certification by mid-2027.
Pippin is friendly, well-groomed, and up to date on all his vaccinations.
*If you’re not comfortable around dogs or have allergies, no problem—we can discuss telehealth options.