Applicant FAQ

Can you train my dog to be a service dog?

Unfortunately, we can’t. We train our dogs for two years, and they are all covered under our insurance policy. We are not able to train your dog and allow it to be covered under our policy.

Can I buy a vest from your organization to help me travel with my dog?

Our vests are not for sale. We train our dogs for years and test them, so we know they are qualified to be service dogs. A vest should not be thought of as a way to bring your dog on vacation. In many states, it is illegal to pass your pet off as a service dog.

I have filled out an application. Am I guaranteed a dog?

No, simply filling out an application does not guarantee you a service dog from Patriot Service Dogs. We have more applicants than dogs in training.

I have severe depression and my doctor said I should get a service dog. I am not a veteran. Can I apply?

No, we only place our dogs with those who have served in the military.

I am a veteran, but my disability is the result of an accident that occurred when I wasn’t serving. Can I still apply?

Absolutely! We welcome all who have served.  As long as you were honorably discharged from any branch of the military, you are welcome to apply.

I served in Vietnam. Am I too old to apply?

We encourage you to apply. Age is not a factor.

I have a dog at home. Will that disqualify me from receiving a dog from you?

No, we place service dogs in homes that currently have pets. Our dogs must live by a different set of rules, but we can work with you to understand what those are.

I have applied to other groups, but they say I have to attend training to get my dog. Does your organization make someone go to training in order to get a service dog?

Yes, we do! We train our dogs for two years, so they know the commands - but you don’t.  We have a week-long training session that you must attend to receive a service dog from us. We want to set you up to have a wonderful experience with a service dog for years to come - and that takes training.

Can I get a service dog that doesn’t shed?

While we do train some Standard Poodles and Poodle mixes, we cannot guarantee that you will be matched with one of these dogs. Most of our dogs shed quite a bit. If that is a problem for you or a member of your family, please consider other organizations who can meet your needs.

What type of activities will I need to do each day with the dog?

You will need to take care of the dog every day of its life. If you are not physically able to feed or take care of the service dog, you must provide or arrange for someone else to care for your service dog. This includes feeding twice a day, exercise, potty, and general care. Our dogs average between 55-85 pounds. They need at least 45 minutes of exercise each day, including walking, playing fetch, etc.