Hello! I am Dr. Anu Wadekar, and I am pleased to introduce my dog, Capo, the Certified Therapy Dog, to the Zandier Counseling team. Capo looks forward to working alongside me to provide our clients with compassionate support.
Capo, our four-year-old Goldendoodle, is not just any dog. He possesses a unique set of abilities that make him a brilliant addition to our team. His calm and radiant personality, coupled with his quick learning and adaptability, set him apart. His ability to read a person’s demeanor and adapt to their comfort level is truly remarkable.
Although he has always been agile and responsive, Capo has gone through training since he was a puppy. Capo is certified with three Canine Good Citizen titles by the American Kennel Club. His most significant training program has been through the GO TEAM Therapy, Crisis and Airport Dogs, Inc. a globally recognized non-profit organization. Through his training, Capo learned to work in a therapeutic environment. He was taught obedience and socialization and learned to remain calm in various high-stress scenarios. Capo’s training involved volunteering at an assisted living facility and a fire station. He also trained for work in airports and in the Pittsburgh regional transit bus system.
The certification process for Capo was thorough, ensuring that he is a lovable companion and a professional therapy dog. His temperament and ability to interact “pawsitively” with different types of people were evaluated, guaranteeing his suitability for this important role.
Incorporating a certified therapy dog into a therapeutic practice offers a unique and effective way to enhance the therapeutic experience. I believe that Animal-assisted therapy with Capo will provide comfort, reduce anxiety, and help patients open up, complimenting my work in profound ways.
Please book an appointment with us by calling Zandier Counseling at (412)-833-1800.