Do Your Research
Again, best sure you are familiar with the criteria, types of dogs placed, geographic region, and any other specific
details of a provider organization BEFORE you request an application. The time and effort involved in administrating
an assistance dog provider organization is tremendous. The purpose of this site is to minimize the time and effort involved
in the interface between client and provider. Organizations will appreciate your effort if they can see that you have
done your homework BEFORE contacting them. You may have to slightly delay the initial contact,
but be assured, you will be speeding up the overall process if you are prepared.
Applying to a Provider Organization
If you have decided to approach the service dog quest by approaching a provider organization, your first big hurdle will
be the application process. Several steps may be involved.
Some organizations will relate only to the person interested in acquiring a service dog. Others will accept applications
from parents, if the applicant is a child. Most do not want to hear from the spouse or friend of a person who may be
wanting a service dog. Getting a service dog is a personal comittment, and most provider organizations will want to
see some evidence that a person understands this and is willing to make an investment of their personal time, resources and
energy.
Usually, the initial request for an application is the first step. Some organizations have provided on-line applications.
Sometimes you will need to pay an application fee, which may or may not be refundable. This can range from $5 to $250.
Before you send money or your contact information to a provider organization, or private trainer, be sure to check out
their references. Are they a member of ADI? How long have they been training service dogs? Have they actually
placed the type of service dog you are interested in? How many dogs have they actually placed, and do they provide contact
information for you to verify? If you have researched the organization, you will have the
answers to these questions. If you do not know the answers to these questions, do not send money or your contact information.
