How Do I Obtain a Service Dog?

Contact organizations that place service dogs, such as Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans and 4 Paws for Ability. Ask the organizations you contact about their service dog programs. Reputable organizations will put their service dogs through an intensive training program and will provide you assistance after a dog has been placed with you. You should be able to contact a trainer with any questions or concerns after you receive your dog. The organization might also provide you with training, which is especially important if you plan to rely on your service dogs for tasks such as balancing, walking and seeing.

Fill out an application with the organization you choose. The application process is typically quite long and thorough. You'll need to explain your particular disability in depth and provide medical documentation. You should be prepared to provide a list of services you'd like your service dog to assist you with, a recommendation from your physician for a service dog and letters from other people, such as family members or friends, vouching for your character. Information about your daily activities and a recent photograph may also be required.

Wait to be contacted by the organization once you submit your application. It may take several months to a year to find a suitable service dog for your particular disability. Once a dog is found, the organization will contact you. Be sure to keep them up-to-date on any changes in your contact information, such as a phone number or address, during that time.

Complete the owner training provided by the organization. Many reputable organizations will provide you with training once a service dog is found. This could take anywhere from a week to a few months. During training, you'll learn how to care for your service dog, how to give it the proper commands and how to handle him during particularly difficult tasks.