And the good news? It's relatively easy to get one, as long as you meet the necessary requirements, that is. Whether you're interested in getting a traditional service dog (which is usually a Golden Retriever or some kind of Lab) or a more unique service animal such as a Capuchin monkey or a miniature horse, here is what you need to do in order to make your service animal dream a reality.
Step #1 - Research training programs: One of the first things you need to do when starting the process of getting a service animal is to begin researching training programs in your area. First and foremost, you want to make sure they're experienced. There's no law or governing body that has a direct hand in how service dog training programs are run, so it's up to you to make sure you find a reputable training program.
A good place to start is with the Assistance Dogs International Program, which is a coalition of nonprofit service dog programs, helping people all over the world find nonprofit service dog training programs near them. All you have to do is put in your zip code and they will find a program in your area. Non-profit service dog programs offer their dogs free of charge, but you'll have to go to their location first before taking the service animal home for training (and to make sure you're compatible with the animal).
If you'd rather not wait and you have the money, you can purchase a dog yourself and pay an experienced trainer to work with you and the dog. To have a service animal legally - all that's required is that you have a disability defined under the ADA and that the animal provides "individually trained assistance" to help with tasks you cannot do because of your disability, so going this route works too.
Step #2 - The application: After you've picked a program you like, the next step is the application process. A form from your doctor saying you have a disability is required, as well as answering dozens of questions pertaining to your everyday activities. You could also be asked for several letters of recommendation from people in your life, to attest to your character and responsibility. Be prepared for a barrage of possibly investigative questioning, but remember, they only do this to make sure all parties are happy at the end of the day.
Step #3 - Waiting game: Waiting to get your application back can be one of the most frustrating parts of getting a service animal since it can be quite lengthy. It can range anywhere from several months to more than a year to find a suitable dog that for you and your needs. And remember, once you're paired with a service animal, you may need to take time off to travel to the training program which can sometimes also be a lengthy process.
Step #4 - Train with your new animal: And the last, most important part of getting a service animal is training together. Make sure to pay attention and learn everything to a T. The education the human companion receives is extremely important in handling their animals properly, including how to behave around and communicate with their companion. Also, service animals� skills need to be utilized often so that the animal provides the utmost in assistance.
Lastly, while it's not legally required, having some kind of "service animal" identification on your dog is a good idea out when taking them out in public. As long as you have some kind of service dog identification, most businesses won�t say much.
It may take a bit of work, but the reward at the end of the day is more than worth it. Having a warm and loving helper animal can add enormous value to your quality of life.
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Still need more information? Visit this website for more resources and info on service animals.