Is a Service Dog right for you?
If you have a physical or developmental disability, and it is determined that a service dog can enhance your independence, then you are qualified to apply. Visit the apply for a dog section of our website for more information. We will review your completed application and assist you throughout the application process.
What do they do?
01
Mobility
Mobility dogs assist individuals with mobility impairments by retrieving dropped or needed items, opening and closing doors, pressing buttons, and pulling wheelchairs. They provide balance support, help with standing or transferring between surfaces, and assist with walking by acting as a counterbalance. Additionally, they can alert others in case of a fall or medical emergency, enhancing independence and safety for their handlers.
02
Hearing
Hearing service dogs assist individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing by alerting them to important sounds. They notify their handlers of alarms, doorbells, ringing phones, timers, and approaching vehicles by making physical contact and leading them to the sound. These dogs can also signal when someone calls their name or when a baby is crying, providing increased awareness and safety in daily life.
03
PTSD
PTSD dogs can provide a range of essential tasks to support individuals with the condition. These dogs are trained to detect signs of anxiety or distress and intervene by providing calming pressure, nudging, or licking to redirect focus. They can create a physical barrier in crowds to reduce anxiety, wake their handler from nightmares, and retrieve medication or a phone during crises. Service dogs also assist with grounding techniques by guiding their handler to exits or safe spaces when feeling overwhelmed. Their presence offers emotional support, enhances independence, and helps mitigate PTSD symptoms in daily life.
04
Seizures
Seizures dogs can perform various tasks to assist individuals with epilepsy or other seizure disorders. These dogs can detect oncoming seizures before they occur, allowing their handler to find a safe place or take precautions. During a seizure, they can provide physical support to prevent injury, activate a medical alert system, retrieve medication, or fetch help from a caregiver. Some are trained to position themselves to prevent falls or cushion their handler's head. After a seizure, they can provide comfort and help their handler regain awareness. These tasks enhance safety, independence, and overall quality of life for individuals with seizures.
05
Diabetes
Diabetic dogs, known as a diabetic alert dog (DAD), are trained to detect changes in blood sugar levels through scent. They can alert their handler to high or low blood sugar before symptoms become severe, allowing for timely intervention. These dogs can retrieve glucose tablets, insulin, or a medical kit, and even alert others in case of an emergency. Some are trained to activate medical alert systems or wake their handler if blood sugar drops dangerously low during sleep. By providing early detection and assistance, diabetic alert dogs enhance safety, independence, and overall well-being for individuals with diabetes.
