Service Dog Program
Our service dog program requires an application and a series of admission interviews before accepting you into the program. Service dog training takes time, commitment and a willingness to participate in the training of your dog. Unlike other schools, we will help you train the dog you already have, if appropriate, or will assist you in locating a puppy to raise yourself, with our guidance and classes. We do not place fully trained dogs in homes at this time. Fees for the various stages of the process are paid up front. We are able to accept some 3rd paty financing (upon approval by the finance company) and may be able to break the fee up into payments, depending on the situation and age of the puppy.
Service dogs are defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act and are dogs that are specifically trained to help people with disabilities. For example, service dogs can be trained to help people who have PTSD, mobility impairments, are deaf or hard of hearing, have diabetes or many other conditions. We can hep people with disabilities train their own dog to assist them as a service dog.
Service dogs are defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act and are dogs that are specifically trained to help people with disabilities. For example, service dogs can be trained to help people who have PTSD, mobility impairments, are deaf or hard of hearing, have diabetes or many other conditions. We can hep people with disabilities train their own dog to assist them as a service dog.
Requirements for the Owner
- Have a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act
- 18 years of age or older (in some circumstances we will consider assisting a parent with the training of a dog for their child)
- Able to participate in training lessons over an extended period of time. The initial training can take a year, two, or even longer
- Able to commit time to practicing with your dog regularly between appointments
- Aware that you may end up with a dog that can only help at home or in places pets are allowed. Up to 50% of service dog candidates in programs are not able to complete training and work in places pets are not permitted.
- Willing to wait until we evaluate your dog's suitability and help you train your dog's foundation skills before putting service dog identification on your dog and before taking your dog to places pets are not permitted.
- Have support from your licensed health care provider for use of a service dog.
Requirements for the Dog
- No history of aggression towards dogs, people or other animals
- Easily trained. A breed or mix likely to have the characteristics suitable for service work is best. Each dog is assessed as an individual but some breeds are more likely to exhibit characteristics suitable for certain types of service work than others
- No history of any serious behavior problems like fear or separation anxiety
- Under the age of 4, physically healthy
If you meet the above requirements and either have a dog that will qualify or be willing to get a puppy to work with, you may fill out our application for admission:
If you need technical assistance with the form, please contact christi@doghelp.net
Our Process
- Step 1: We begin with a virtual appointment lasting approximately 1 hour. This is when we will gather information about your dog and your needs, give you important information about service dog training as well as training recommendations to get started. (Fee $50)
- Step 2: We conduct an evaluation of your dog, usually lasting up to 1 hour. This is when we look at how your dog responds to some minor stressors in a new situation to see if it is appropriate to begin training for service work. (Fee: $50)
- Step 3: We either begin looking for a suitable prospect for service dog training, if necessary, and/or begin training. This process usually takes 1-2 years, but can take longer. (Fee: $3500-$10,000 depending on the dog's level of training, the distance to client, tasks being trained and many other factors. These factors will be discussed with you during the interview processes and your costs will always be known to you. The cost of the puppy is not included in these fees.) This process includes some or all of the following:
- Basic group training classes if necessary
- Day training periodically
- Virtual and in-person training appointments
- Individual lessons either in a private setting or in public, as recommended by the trainer
- Step 4: Follow-up support to help maintain your dog's training throughout your service dog's working career. (Fee: Approximately $100)