FAQs

What does it cost to train a Service Dog?

  The cost to raise and train a Service Dog can range from $10,000 - $100,000 (depending on the organization and the program).   We offer scholarships for our programs and our dogs can be acquired on a sliding scale, so no one is left behind due to financial constraints! Each case is handled on an individual basis. During our interview and financial discovery process we determine a reasonable, non-burdensome, fee for the individual. Any further costs are covered by scholarships through the nonprofit. This process insures that our scholarship funds go to those who need it most, and those who can afford more are able to help those who can't. 

How long does it take to train a Service Dog?

  Depending on a number of factors, it could take a few months to a couple years. If we are owner training a well started adult, it would be on the faster end. Raising and training a puppy takes at least a year, then we need to train the dog and human as a team. The more tasks required or the more specialized the work, the longer it will take to train the dog.

Can my dog be a Service Dog?

  If you have an ADA defined disability and your dog passes evaluation, they could be a candidate.  It takes a unique dog to have the traits to qualify as a Service Dog. The dog must be fearless, confident, owner oriented, focused, have a desire to work, settle easily, and have no fear or aggression issues. Purchasing a puppy on your own and hoping it can be trained as a Service Dog can lower the chance of success if you don't know how to evaluate breeders and pups.

How long is your waiting list?

  Because we are a small organization that customizes each case, this answer can vary. We may have a dog currently in training that could be a match for you or we would need to seek out a breeder and pup, or rescue dog, to bring in and start training for your personal situation. Or you may have a pet dog that qualifies as a candidate and the training time would depend on the age of the dog, any previous training, the time and effort put in, the dog's cognitive strengths and weaknesses, etc, etc.   Training a dog to become a Service Dog is not a guarantee. At any point, a dog could be let go from the program if certain issues arise. We also do not keep a list based on order of applicants. Priority goes to pairing the right dog and human team, not first-come-first-served. 

What should I do if I'm interested in a Service Dog?

  Start by filling out our application, have your Doctor fill out our Dr/Psychiatrist Testimonial letter, and send in the processing fee. We will then reach out to schedule an initial interview. As we move forward, you are welcome to engage with our program so you can get to know our dogs and we can get to know you. This may involve socializing our pups, exposing them to medical equipment you may have, stuffing Kongs, and more.  You might work with several dogs in our training program, which helps us get to know you better, see what kind of handler you are, and determine what temperament of dog would be best suited for you. You can not apply for a specific dog that you have seen in our program. We know our dogs intimately and want to be sure that it's the best match for both them and you.