Paul Bunyan Dog Training Association announces fall graduates

Four dogs and their owners recently graduated from the Paul Bunyan Dog Training Association-sponsored Therapy Dog Training.

Two Bemidji residents and their dogs graduated: Tami Erickson and Honey, and Tonie Voigt and Harvey.

The graduates also included two Park Rapids residents and their dogs: Aletta Anderson and Sapphire, and Journie Schoon and Dakota.

They have completed volunteer training based on standards of practice through materials from Animal-Assisted Activities and Therapy Dog Team Training Course, a release said. Their dogs have passed basic health screening, a Therapy Dog Skills and Aptitude Test and some will be certified as AKC Canine Good Citizens.

There are many ways companion animals can brighten the lives and improve the well-being of nursing home residents, hospital patients and children in treatment centers, the release said.