Post-traumatic stress disorder can be hard to deal with, but a service dog can help.If you want to apply for an accredited service dog program, you need to discuss your specific needs with your therapist.You may need to raise funds to cover your expenses if you don't have a service dog.A mandatory training course is the last step of the process, where you will bond with your dog, practice giving it commands, and learn how to care for it.
Step 1: You should look for a program that is accredited by ADI.
If you want to avoid scam and unqualified trainers, apply to an accredited service dog program.To find credible national and local programs in your area, enter your location into ADI's online search tool.You can begin your search at assistancedogsinternational.org.A list of accredited programs will be generated by the search tool.There are links to research each program's cost, application process, and eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Look at the costs charged for programs.
Information about eligibility and costs can be found on FAQ or About pages.In the U.S., several national organizations, such as America's Vet-Dogs and K9s for Warriors, offerPTSD service dogs for military veterans and first responders free of charge.Service Dogs for America serves both veterans and civilians.The cost of service dogs for civilians can be more than $20,000.Service dog organizations that don't cover costs are usually helpful in raising money.
Step 3: A preliminary application can be filled out online.
The first step in the application process is submitting a preliminary application.If you are a veteran, you will need to provide your personal information, enter your service and discharge details, answer questions about your needs, and verify that you understand the responsibilities of caring for a service dog.The mental health evaluation and military discharge forms are required for some organizations.The paperwork comes later in the process for others.Specific steps to the application process can be reviewed on the program website.It could take up to 6 weeks for the application to be processed.You will get a letter with information about the next steps if you are approved.It is not a guarantee that your full application will be accepted.
Step 4: You can submit a mental health evaluation.
You must have a licensed mental health professional confirm that you attend therapy at least once a month.Specific tasks you need a service dog to do will be included in their evaluation.Your therapist will fill out and mail the evaluation form with the application to the program.Discuss your needs with your therapist before and during the application process.Ask how a service dog contributes to your treatment plan.Service dogs are only one part of treatment and don't replace ongoing mental health care.
Step 5: Interviews can be done in person or via phone.
Within 3 to 4 weeks of submitting your application, the organization can schedule a phone interview with you.Not every program requires a phone interview.If you want to give a service dog the love and care it needs, you need to be yourself and be honest about your needs.Phone and in-person interviews help the program match you with a service dog that suits your needs, family, and environment.It is possible that your therapist needs to sit for a phone or in-person interview.
Step 6: Wait at least six to eight weeks for the application to be processed.
You can expect a decision by mail within 8 weeks of submitting your application.You may be put on a wait list for 6 months to 2 years if you are approved.The complete application process takes about 2 to 3 months.If your application is not approved, you cannot reapply to the program.You could apply to another organization.Ask why you aren't eligible to receive a service dog if you're not approved, and factor their feedback into your next application.
Step 7: Look for a program that gives free dogs.
There are many programs in the US that offer service dogs for veterans and first responders for free.Look for service dog organizations that raise funds to help their clients.
Step 8: You should consult your program's financial aid counselors.
Financial aid counseling can be provided if your program doesn't cover the cost of a service dog.As soon as your application has been approved, start raising money.Ask your program's financial aid counselors about local and national grant programs, as well as seek advice about planning successful fundraisers.If you have a budget, ask your financial aid counselors if you can set up a payment plan.
Step 9: There are grants and scholarships.
You can search online for service dog grants in your country and state.Non-profit organizations that award grants and scholarships for service dogs can be reached by your financial aid counselor.Grant application processes vary, but you will most likely need to provide your personal and financial information, documentation of your diagnosis, and verification that you have been approved by an ADI-accredited program.Financial aid resources, including links to grant programs, can be found through the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners.
Step 10: An online campaign can be launched.
You can create a page on a platform such as First Giving.Your financial aid counselor can help you set up the site.When you set up your page, you'll have to enter their financial information, because the organization will say that the funds go directly to them.Explain your needs concisely when you create your page.Tell us about the costs you need to cover.If it makes you uncomfortable, you don't need to share every detail of your disability.Ask your financial aid counselor for a breakdown of costs if you check your approval packet.The dog itself, a 2 to 3 week mandatory training program, travel and lodging, and the dog's service vest and ID are all included.Share your page on your social media accounts and ask your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same.Local newspapers and TV news stations should be contacted.They might be interested in running a story about your efforts.
Step 11: You can organize events with businesses.
If you are comfortable in public places, visit businesses in person to see if they would be willing to partner on an event.If your employer, school, or place of worship is interested in hosting a fundraising event, you could ask.Ask a restaurant in your area if they can host a benefit for you.They can either donate a percentage of the benefit night's sales or a specific menu item to your cause.On your behalf, they could collect additional donations from their guests.People pay for service dogs with the help of national chain restaurants.If you know the owner cares about causes related to mental health and service animals, then privately owned businesses are worth a try.
Step 12: Potential service dogs can be met at 2 or more assessments.
The organization will most likely match you with more than one dog based on your application forms and interviews.You'll meet potential service dogs at 2 or more assessments, then organization's staff will pair you with your new companion.You'll have final approval if the organization's staff matches you with a service dog that best meets your needs.You and your new dog will learn how to work together at an intensive training course once you've been matched.Check with your program for specific information about matching procedures.
Step 13: If you want to live with a service dog, attend a 2 to 3 week course.
You will need to complete an in-person training program after you have been approved.The classes are usually held at the service organization and you can stay in an apartment or dormitory.The cost of the training program is covered by some programs.You can include these expenses in your goal if yours doesn't.You will learn about your rights as the owner of a service dog at the training program.
Step 14: Trainers will help you give your dog commands.
Your dog was learning how to perform certain tasks for 6 months to 2 years before you arrived.The staff at the training program will show you how to interact with your service dog.It's a common service dog command that you can practice.If you have a panic episode, you would give the command.Depending on its training, your dog would make physical contact with you, retrieve medication, or complete another task to relieve your symptoms.
Step 15: After finishing the class, you should have your service dog vest and ID card.
You will receive your service dog's gear and paperwork at the end of the training program.If the organization did not cover the costs of a vest and ID, they were included in your financial aid breakdown.You don't have to carry registration paperwork or discuss the nature of your disability in the U.S.You may have to show your dog's documentation up to 48 hours before your flight.They may ask for a letter from your therapist.
Step 16: You have to complete any ongoing assessments.
You will most likely have quarterly home visits during the first year of your program.You may need to attend video or in-person training every 1 to 2 years.To make sure your service dog is meeting your needs and you are providing proper care, programs conduct follow-up assessments and training.If your program does not require ongoing home visits, you will still need to check in via telephone or video.Every 1 to 2 years, most programs require clients to provide verification that they are still attending monthly therapy sessions.