Amstel Thresher THDD, owned by Alison Thresher of Port Chester, NY, has earned the AKC Therapy Dog Distinguished title for making more than 400 visits to help others.

Alison adopted Amstel from the North Shore Animal League in November 2004 at the age of 7 ½ weeks.

She had such a great temperament and did so well in her basic training that Alison decided to pursue therapy dog work with her.  Amstel received her therapy dog certification from the Good Dog Foundation in December 2007 and began her therapy work soon afterward.

Amstel has been visiting two facilities a week for her therapy sessions ever since and has made more than 400 visits to help others.

Amstel loves everyone, including her two feline siblings, her best friend, Stewart, and Khaleesi, who has one eye, Alison said.

Amstel qualified for the AKC Therapy Dog title through the AKC Canine Partners program for all dogs, including rescues and mixed-breeds. For information on joining the AKC Canine Partners community:

 /dog-owners/canine-partners/enroll/ 

For information on the AKC Therapy Dog title program: /dog-owners/training/akc-therapy-dog-program/