A guide dog walking abreast of a blind individual is the most widely identified symbol of a human and service dog relationship. The utilization of service dogs is not limited to the blind. According to the 1990 Americans with Disabilities act, "The ADA defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability." While the review process may require phone conversations and the review of medical records, many organizations with a mission of training service dogs provide a means for members of the public to apply online.
Instructions
1. Visit the Internet home pages of groups that train service dogs or match individuals with service dogs. Organizations may be discovered through Internet searches or by recommendation of support groups or health care providers related to the individual disability.
2. Carefully read the criteria of each service animal group. Some groups only train and supply service dogs to assist individuals with a specific disability. Preference is not discriminatory. Rather, the group specializes in training dogs to perform specific areas of assistance. For example, America's VetDogs matches wounded veterans with service dogs, while Leader Dogs for the Blind assists persons with limited vision.
3. Compile medical information detailing physical limitations. Have medical records, military records and contact information for current rehabilitation programs or doctors on hand. Questions may reference the information.
4. Click to the application section of the website. The correct page may be labeled "Apply" or "Application."
5. Fill out the online questionnaire as thoroughly and as truthfully as possible. In addition to identifying questions and medical history, applications may ask whether the applicant is prepared to care for a dog financially. While the organization may provide the service dog at no expense to the applicant, routine veterinary visits and food are the responsibility of the applicant.
6. Hunt for secondary forms on the website. Fill out supporting forms, such as information releases. This gives an organization permission to contact references or to gather additional information to aid in the application process.
7. Submit the application when it has been completely filled out.
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