Retirement of Therapy Dogs, School Dogs, and Care Dogs – A Dignified Conclusion

A long life in service of people deserves a dignified conclusion.When a school dog, therapy dog, or care dog enters retirement, it’s not about “stopping work”, it’s about creating space for calm, safety, and joy, on the dog’s own terms. 🐾

At Dyrebar Omsorg, we emphasize the entire lifespan of dogs in animal-assisted services, from recruitment and training to a dignified and welfare-based retirement. Every dog that has contributed to human learning, health, and well-being deserves a safe transition into a new phase characterized by peace, care, and respect.

When is it time to retire the dog?

Retirement marks the conclusion of a meaningful career where the dog has made a difference in many lives. For the dog, it represents a transition from an active working life to a calmer phase with adapted activities.

It’s rarely age alone that determines when a dog should retire. The most important factors are the dog’s health, motivation, and functional capacity. Signs may appear gradually; reduced endurance, less interest in tasks, increased stress, or lower tolerance for stimuli, especially in demanding social environments.

Medical issues such as reduced hearing or vision, or more subtle signs of emotional fatigue, like the dog withdrawing from contact or showing less joy when “going to work”, may indicate that the time has come. A veterinary health check combined with a behavioral assessment provides a solid basis for making the right decision on the dog’s behalf.

Plan the transition gradually

A gradual transition is important for the dog’s mental and physical well-being. The workload should be reduced step by step, and tasks adapted to the dog’s energy level and daily condition.

Clear role clarification is also essential for the owner or handler, colleagues, and the people the dog used to work with. Everyone must understand that the dog is now retired and free from professional duties.

For many dogs, light mental stimulation remains meaningful, for example, nosework, simple search tasks, and walks that allow for exploration without physical or emotional strain.

Social contact and quality of life

Social contact often remains important but should be adapted to the dog’s initiative and needs. Many retired therapy, school, and care dogs continue to offer comfort and joy simply through their presence.

Ethical considerations are central in this phase. A dog that has worked in animal-assisted services has given much and deserves a respectful conclusion to its career. Ethics here means protecting the dog and honoring the close bond between handler and animal. Putting the dog’s needs first means ensuring that retirement becomes a period of emotional rest and protection from the stress that can come with intense human interaction.

The handler’s emotional role

For the handler, retirement can also be an emotional transition. It may be difficult to let go of the daily working relationship, especially when the partnership has been close and rewarding. It’s important to acknowledge one’s own feelings while keeping in mind that the dog’s need for rest and recovery must now take priority.

After retirement, the dog’s health and quality of life should be followed up regularly. Age-related changes may require additional support, treatment, or adjustments. With proper care, empathy, and understanding, retirement can become a period marked by safety, connection, and joy, just like Vidda, 13.5 years old, who still enjoys her walks with a wagging tail and curious enthusiasm. 🌿

In summary – how to ensure a good retirement for therapy, school, and care dogs:

• Gradual transition and clear role clarification

• Adapted physical and mental activity

• Safety, predictability, and social contact on the dog’s terms

• Recognition and respect for the dog’s contribution

• Awareness of the handler’s emotional role

• Good follow-up of health and quality of life in old age