Step 1:

• Determine your eligibility. Talk to your healthcare provider. Some providers may not be aware of the benefits of working with a service dog or which conditions make you eligible for working with one.

Step II:

•  Find a training facility. Training facilities that are accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) are listed on their website by location.

  • Some facilities offer the option to train your personal pet to become a service dog if they meet the requirements to mitigate your specific disability. 

• If you choose to find your facility via an internet search, be aware of fraudulent websites.

  • Webpages selling certificates for your personal pet to be labeled as a service dog are fraudulent.

  • Labeling your pet as an emotional support animal does not grant your dog public access rights.

  • If a site requires you to pay a fee through wiring money, it may not be a real training facility. While most facilities do have an application fee, they do not require this payment method.

  • Consider calling and speaking with the facility prior to submitting the application to ensure you feel comfortable with them. 

Step III:​

• Gather supplies and prepare for your dog. Once training is complete you will be bringing home your service dog.

  • Some facilities will provide you with the basics: kennel, leash, harness, etc.

  • Be in communication with your facility about what you will need to purchase before bringing home your new service dog.

  • Contact your occupational therapist to set up an appointment to begin addressing mobility requirements with the dog, role transitions, and get fitted for proper harness and leash equipment.