Program Requirements
Is HSD Right for You?
Hope Service Dogs wants every placement to be successful—for the individual, the family, and the dog.
Training and working with a service dog is a significant commitment. Our requirements help us determine whether an HSD program is an appropriate fit for you and your situation.
Before You Apply
Age
HSD serves individuals with disabilities age 13 and older.
Disability-Related Need
A service dog must perform specifically trained tasks that help mitigate a person's disability.
HSD considers your individual needs, the tasks you require, and whether a service dog is an appropriate addition to your overall care.
A service dog is not a replacement for mobility aids or other appropriate medical equipment.
Living Environment
Your home must provide a safe and appropriate environment for a service dog.
You may have other dogs or animals in your home, but aggressive dogs are not permitted.
Ability to Participate in Training
Successful service dog partnerships require ongoing training and participation from the handler.
Training isn't something that happens only during scheduled lessons. The skills your dog learns need to become part of everyday life.
You must be able and willing to participate in your dog's training and continue practicing skills consistently.
Financial Commitment
Service dog training is a significant investment.
Program costs vary depending on the HSD program and the dog you select. Please review the appropriate program information for current pricing and financial requirements.
Additional Considerations
Every applicant and every situation is different.
HSD considers factors such as:
Your disability-related needs
The tasks you need your dog to perform
Your ability to participate in training
Your living environment
Other animals in the home
Your ability to provide appropriate veterinary care and ongoing care for the dog
Whether HSD has a dog and program that are an appropriate match for you
Meeting the basic requirements does not guarantee acceptance or placement.
Not Every Applicant Is a Match
A decision not to accept an applicant does not mean that their disability or need isn't legitimate.
It means that, based on the information available, HSD may not be the right organization or program for that particular situation.
Our priority is making placements that are safe, ethical, and successful for both the person and the dog.
Ready to See If HSD Is a Fit?
If you've reviewed the requirements and believe an HSD program may be right for you, the next step is to apply.
Not ready to apply?
Take some time to learn more about our service dogs, programs, and training process.