Program Overview
SDV dogs are trained in all of the essential house manners, as well as to pick up dropped items, carry packages, open doors, and get the phone. They are trained to push or pull designated objects, pay for items in a store, and move to designated positions. Our dogs are trained “generically” with about 50 cues, then customized to an individual’s needs. We have trained dogs to take clothes from the dryer and put them in a basket or tug and alarm to summon help. We are happy to train a dog to learn cues specific to an individual’s need or to help the recipient teach their dog new tools.
All of our dogs are neutered, vaccinated, x-rayed, micro-chipped, and heartworm-free.
Individuals who are interested in acquiring a service dog are required to submit an application along with a $25, non-refundable fee. After the initial application is reviewed, a home visit will be scheduled. At that time, additional criteria will be discussed and potential recipients will be required to meet our recommendations to insure the dog will be safe, adequately cared for and help in the success of the team.
After an individual is fully qualified for a dog, and a “match” is made, SDV expects that the client will attend a two week transfer camp that will allow us to: teach him/her all of the cues that the dogs have learned; to work together as a team; to become comfortable working in public; to demonstrate how to teach the dog new behaviors; how to care for the dog; and to educate the client about the responsibilities associated with dog ownership and taking a dog out in public.
At the end of transfer camp, teams will also be tested using the Assistance Dog International (ADI) test. ADI is an international organization made up of member service dog programs and sets standards for the field. Their test focuses on the interaction and harmony between the person and their dog, the ability of the dog to work safely with his new handler, and the ability of the dog to behave appropriately in public. This test is a minimum requirement and individuals who cannot pass will not receive a dog. We expect our clients to pass this test and also demonstrate additional tasks their dog will perform to assist their independence.
Children will be required to have each parent attend part of the transfer camp. If the child uses an aide at school, the aide must also attend a portion of the camp and be willing to meet with SDV staff to learn the appropriate role of an aide helping a client with a service dog. Children need to be at least 1 0 years old to apply.
After completion of the transfer camp and “graduation,” teams are phoned on their first night home, then again in two weeks, one month, and six months. At these intervals, SDV can trouble shoot any areas that need special attention. We are also available on an ongoing basis, at no charge, if any of our clients need assistance. Clients are actively encouraged to return for help whenever the need arises.
Full ownership of the dog will be granted at one year. A one-year wait helps us know that the dogs are being cared for, treated properly, and are being used for their intended purpose. Nevertheless, if for any reason the handler is unable to care for the dog, the dog must be returned to SDV. Under no circumstances may the dog be given away to an unapproved home. The best interest of the dog must be served. Also at the one-year mark, the team will be re-tested using the ADI test.