SERVICE DOGS FOR VETERANS: WHERE TO FIND THEM, HOW TO TRAIN THEM, AND MORE
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) began recognizing service dogs and defining what they were back in 1990. Although they don’t require formal training, service dogs will need training to help with specific tasks that help one’s disabilities. Service dogs for Veterans continue to help our nation’s heroes heal and function better leading to fuller lives.Studies by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) show that Vets who have suffered either a disability that is either mental, physical, or both can benefit from service dogs while also helping provide more communities with healthcare and cutting costs in the process.Any service dog for Veterans can help change the lives of those who suffer from disabilities for the better. Below, we’re breaking down breeds, considerations, resources, and much more to help you get started.
The Best Breeds of Service Dogs for Veterans
Finding the best service dog breeds for Veterans with mental or physical disabilities means finding canines capable of staying disciplined, intelligent, and even-tempered.If you’re dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other disabilities, we have several recommendations for canines up for the task.Learn more about the top service dog breeds for Veteransand always talk to your healthcare team before making a decision.
How to Get a Service Dog for Veterans
You can find service dogs for Veterans with PTSD and other disabilities through many different means, including:
- Training your pet to become a service dog.
- VA benefits and your insurance coverage.
- Nonprofit organizations who donate trained service dogs for Vets.
- Local grants vary from state to state.
Our guide helps break down each and every method and what they entail below; however, to get started, it’s important to look at what qualifies as a service dog and why handlers may require one.
What Disabilities Qualify for a Service Dog?
For a service dog to qualify under the definition for them to receive protections from state and federal laws, you must suffer from one of the following disabilities:
- A loss of hearing, including if you have suffered hearing loss or are deaf/deafblind
- Communication disorders
- Conditions that require special ambulatory devices or services
- Developmental or intellectual disabilities
- Mental health disorders
- Mobility impairments
- Physical disabilities
- PTSD
- Vision impairments, including the blind and those with low vision
Keep in mind that while there are service dogs for Veterans that can help with PTSD, research is still collecting data as to whether or not they are effective specifically for PTSD. Still, there are many service dogs trained to help with tasks that can aid with PTSD while also providing emotional support.So, service dogs for Veterans with anxiety or PTSD can qualify so long as they meet the above requirements. Remember, the canine you choose must be able to perform a task to help you with the disability as well.
Service Dog vs Emotional Support Dog
We’ve already established that service dogs for disabled Veterans must assist Vets with their disability, but it’s important to take a closer look at what separates them from emotional support animals.When we look at man’s best friend, there are several roles they can fill. This includes working dogs that may be helping with bomb detection, therapy dogs assisting with PTSD, and of course, emotional support dogs.Legally, there is no strict definition as to what constitutes an emotional support dog; however, this also means special protections and rights also fly out of the window as the ADA doesn’t account for them.Feeling anxiety, depression, or other negative mental health issues are all serious conditions. Having a companion is a great way to overcome things, such as panic attacks while in public or on a plane.But there aren’t specific tasks being performed, and this is how things can get a bit tricky.One legal protection owners of emotional support animals have is the Fair Housing Act, which states that “reasonable accommodations” must be made, even if the property doesn’t allow pets.However, this is a far cry from the protections provided to service dogs, which are allowed where other animals traditionally aren’t.Air travel is a major consideration as each airline uses its own discretion on whether or not emotional support animals are allowed to fly with you.Veterans with service dogs can bring them on the plane without an issue or pet fee. Although, it’s worth noting that each airline will have its own regulations as to where the dog will stay during the flight.For example, some airlines may require service dogs to ride on your lap while others may allow them to rest at your feet.The one thing that isn’t allowed, for obvious safety reasons, is permitting dogs to blow aisles or emergency exit rows.Overall, emotional support dogs are a bit looser in definition. They retain fewer rights than service dogs.Furthermore, service dogs for Veterans are going to be necessary in situations where disabilities may otherwise cause issues.Determining which is right for you is an important step for any owner. Speaking with your healthcare team can help you make an informed decision.
How to Make My Dog a Service Dog
If you have a canine that is a pet you wish to make your service dog, it’s possible. However, you need to remember that service dogs require a bit more than just a title to complete their duties.Also, remember that not all dogs make great service dogs, so it may not be possible. To get started, be sure to undertake these steps if you’re serious about using your pet as a service animal:
Focus On Need Rather Than Want
The mission of service dogs for Veterans is clear and just because it would be a great idea for your pet to become one, you must put needs before anything.Having your pet as a service animal is a very convenient prospect that also makes practical sense for treatment.You and your dog already have an established relationship, they know your routines, their home is your home, etc.However, trained service dogs also understand the discipline of getting the job done.On average, service dogs take between three months to a year to train for their tasks.
Weigh Your Options
If your pet is capable of being trained for service, it’s still worth thinking about how this changes your already established dynamic.Being a pet is one thing but when you’re a service dog responsible for potentially dangerous situations, changes will be felt.Your companion is not just a pet anymore but an integral part of your treatment. They will need to be treated as such.Keeping your dog as a pet can be a rewarding experience. If they are especially good with other animals, having a standalone service dog can help you both get more out of the experience and better treat your health.
Commit to Training
Once temperament and lifestyle factors have been considered, it’s time to commit to training your pet.Keep in mind you’ll either need to pay for service dog training for Veterans or have the experience and knowledge yourself to teach your furry friend how to perform its tasks effectively.Regardless of whether or not you use your pet or a dog that has already been trained, remember that training is an ongoing process throughout the dog’s life.Committing to training sessions isn’t something that you do for a bit and then move on. Your dog is going to need to continue training from the early learning stages throughout its life to maintain skills.
VA’s Service Dog Health Insurance Benefit
The VA provides many Veteran benefits, including service dogs for those who qualify under the framework of 38 CFR 17.148.One of the benefits is known as the Service Dog Health Insurance Benefit. Vets can receive guide and service dogs if they have an impairment affecting their hearing or vision, or if there are substantial mobility issues.Veterans also have access to the Recognized Service Dogs for the insurance benefit, which provides compensation for service dogs that meet the following criteria:
- Both the dog and the Veteran must have completed a training program administered by an organization accredited by the Assistance Dogs International, the International Guide Dog Federation, or both.
- The VA requires Veterans to provide the completion of such programs with a certificate.
While the VA doesn’t directly provide service dogs for Veterans, they can still assist through referrals to agencies accredited by Assistance Dogs International or the International Guide Dog Federation.
Your Insurance and VA Service Dog Benefits
You’ll need to meet certain requirements pertaining to your insurance to receive benefits. Furthermore, the VA won’t pay for more than one service dog at a time.In order to receive benefits, you must have commercially practicable insurance coverage that meets the following guidelines:
- There are no copays, deductibles, or premiums that are the responsibility of the VA or Veteran. Care that goes beyond the plan’s maximum coverage is paid for by the Veteran. However, the carrier must notify Vets in advance if they are going to exceed their coverage limits when reasonably possible.
- All treatment and prescriptions related are covered by the policy if they are medically necessary when performed by a Veterinarian acceptable to the carrier. Veterans do not receive a bill and the carrier reimburses the provider directly.
- If the service dog has a preexisting condition but can still perform its duties, the insurance plan can’t exclude coverage.
- Hardware, repairs, and replacement hardware clinically determined to be required for the service dog to perform its tasks are covered. However, Veterans must request devices through their local VA medical center by contacting its Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service.
- If you are pre-approved to have your travel expenses paid for when receiving your service dog, you can receive compensation. Furthermore, you also must have the service dog prescribed by a VA clinical team. Additionally, the VA pays for travel expenses if you need a replacement service dog as well.
Keep in mind there are costs the VA or insurance doesn’t have to cover. This includes things like food (nonprescription), grooming services, pet-sitting, license tags, etc. To learn more, you can download VHA Directive 1188 (1).
Applying for VA Veterinary Health Benefits
If you wish to use your VA benefits for your service dog, you’ll need to apply. Here’s how the process works:
- If you are in need of a service dog because of hearing or mobility issues or if you need guidance, contact your VA Clinical Care Provider to start your application.
- There is an evaluation that takes place. If it’s determined that a service dog for the Veteran is the best method of rehab and treatment, your provider requests your benefits on your behalf through your local VA Medical Center Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service.
- Veterans who wish to apply for a service dog due to mental health issues limiting mobility will need to meet with a VA Mental Health Provider to start.
- Similarly, an evaluation takes place to evaluate and determine if the condition is the main cause of mobility limitation for the Veteran, along with whether or not a service dog is the best method of treating it. Vets who meet the requirements will have their request put in by the healthcare provider through the local VA Medical Center Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service.
The following is what each application reviews when determining the use of service dogs for Veterans:
- The ability and means of the Veteran, their family, and/or caregiver, to take care of the dog. This includes both the present and future needs of the animal.
- The goals that are being met by using a service dog.
- The goals that are being met by other forms of assistive technology or therapy.
The VA Prosthetics and Sensory Aid Service notifies Vets if they are approved or denied after the review of the application is complete.
Service Dog Organizations for Veterans
From a financial standpoint, finding a free service dog for Veterans can be a bit of a challenge; however, options may exist through the help of local and national organizations.As with anything free, be sure to conduct your due diligence to avoid scams. Double-check the accreditations, licensing, and programs each dog is a part of before accepting them.Owners are liable for dog bites, even if they try and protect others. Furthermore, you’ll need to ensure that your service dog is capable of helping you with your disability in a variety of settings.While leaning on organizations for help is important, you need to be sure you are working with a reputable entity.
With that being said, you may have to cover the cost of your dog, but many organizations help provide training free of charge.Below are several trusted organizations offering free service dog training for Veterans, including some that may be able to help you train your current pet for the job:
K9s For Warriors
K9s For Warriors is a trusted nonprofit providing free service dogs for Veterans with PTSD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or military sexual trauma (MST) to those who apply and qualify.Since 2011, K9s For Warriors has been rescuing animals and improving the lives of our nation’s heroes.
Patriot PAWS Service Dogs
Operating out of Texas, Patriot PAWS Service Dogs is another organization providing free service dogs for Veterans who are trained to handle patients with PTSD.Founded by Lori Stevens, her 20+ years of experience in training dogs is apparent.A graduate of the Karen Pryor Academy (KPA), Stevens is also a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) with a passion for helping the Veteran community.
American Humane’s Pups4Patriots
If there’s any organization dedicated to the well-being and treatment of animals, it’s American Humane.The Pups4Patriots program provides dogs in need a second chance by pairing them up with heroes who can benefit from their service.There are PTSD service dogs for Veterans and first responders available. The dogs are also trained to handle TBI.
Blue Star Service Dogs
The programs at Blue Star Service Dogs are another example of people helping both canines and Veterans in need.Since 2010, the organization has been training dogs under extensive programs to master obedience and the skills they need to help Veterans with PTSD live more fulfilling lives.
Paws and Stripes
Mental health issues continue to be addressed in a number of ways, including the use of service dogs for Veterans, as evidenced by these organizations.At Paws and Stripes, dogs undergo a year of training to address a wide range of mental health issues, including PTSD and TBI, but also including depression, MST, and trauma.The New Mexico-based organization also helps train dogs for physical ailments as well. Dogs can also help with chronic pain.
Association of Service Dog Providers for Military Veterans
The Association of Service Dog Providers for Military Veterans isn’t simply one organization helping canines and Vets but rather a collection of groups working to provide a connection between the animals and those who need them.Not only does the coalition assist with connecting Vets with service dogs but they also help advocate the use of service animals lobbying on behalf of the communities, strategically located in Arlington, Virginia.
Grants for Service Dogs for Veterans
If you’re looking to purchase a service dog, you’ll soon realize that the cost of not only buying a dog but taking care of one quickly adds up.Fortunately, you can find grants for service dogs for Veterans available through both organizations and the government:
- For more information on finding organization-based grants to help you acquire a service dog, US Service Animals can help. There are different grants you might qualify for, depending on your type of disability.
- Additionally, you’ll want to check for grants available through your state and local governments. Veteran commissions and affairs divisions in your state are a great place to start looking for resources.
Free Service Dog Registration for Veterans
You will notice plenty of websites providing free service dog registration. However, it’s important to understand that the ADA does not require documentation or registration.This includes prohibiting state and local laws from enacting such requirements. Simply put, you don’t need to register your service dog even if it’s a free service.Furthermore, the ADA also prohibits requesting documentation. Keep in mind some exceptions may apply to employment, air travel, and housing.
Cost of a Service Dog
One of the attractions of those in need of non-profit service dogs for Veterans is the outstanding costs associated with adopting, training, and taking care of these canines.Even if the service dog is necessary and helps you with your disability, you’re going to need to plan for the financial responsibilities that come with them, including the following:
- Adopting a service dog can cost between $10,000 and $30,000 with some canines reaching $50,000 if not more.
- Dogs with no training will cost less; however, you’ll need to find a way to train them or end up paying hundreds of dollars per hour for several months to prepare them for the tasks they need to perform.
- Keep in mind a PTSD service dog for Veterans who can also help with additional disabilities will require more training.
- Vet bills, dog food, toys, supplies, equipment, medication, etc., are all going to add up. The costs are around $500 per year; however, some dogs may require this type of budget on food alone, much less medical care or whatever else comes your way.
- Depending on your deductible, handlers can pay between $10 and $100 per month on average for Animal Liability Insurance.
- You’ll also want to prepare for the unexpected and miscellaneous. Service dogs are well-trained but can still make mistakes and get into mischief requiring a trip to the vet. Travel expenses may also occur for adopting, training, or treating your dog.
How to Train Service Dogs for Veterans
Training service dogs for Veterans can be a great way to give back to the military community. However, it’s a bit more involved than simply teaching a canine how to fetch or speak.The trained service dogs for Veterans have an important task at hand once they graduate and “task” is the keyword here because while companions, it’s important to remember that these animals are on the clock.Offering emotional support is arguably the role any dog with the right temperament and treatment will provide its human; however, service dogs are on duty to help Vets with their disabilities 24/7.This means when you train a dog to assist disabled Veterans, the responsibility can’t get lost in the shuffle.It’s an important job that can have real-life consequences involving the health of the handler, the animal, and those around them.With that being said, there are some ways you can become equipped with the right knowledge, mindset, and skills to help train service dogs for Veterans.Whether you are looking to train your dog, or someone else’s, or simply looking for a place to get the job done, here’s what you need to know:
Take a Dog Training Course
If you’re looking to give back by training service dogs for Veterans, you’re going to need to be prepared for the job. It’s one thing to have a passion for pups and for helping our Vets, but you’ll need to also gain useful skills before applying for such a position.Be sure to build your experience training canines in general before specializing in service dogs.
Search for Local Training Organizations
You can learn from other experts in your area and even online to gain the knowledge and skills you need.Service dog training isn’t a very regulated field. You can seek out certifications and training from many different organizations, including colleges and universities near you.
Handler Training and Ongoing Support
Finally, you’ll also want to get some experience working with people who have disabilities. Additionally, you'll understand how service dogs and handlers communicate with each other.The bond between handlers and service dogs is important. Knowing how service dogs for Vets interact and vice versa is essential for making the relationship work.Teamwork is necessary both in and outside of crisis for both parties to operate effectively. Remember, graduation isn’t the end of this relationship, but rather the beginning.Ongoing training is necessary. Follow-up support from trainers to Veterans with service dogs is essential to maintaining a long-term successful partnership.
Find a Training Facility
Once you’ve gained meaningful experience and have had specialized training, it’s a great idea to seek an internship or entry role to get your foot in the door.From there, networking and applying yourself over time will put you on a surefire path toward helping change lives.Many of the organizations listed in our guide, as well as others in your area, are always looking for volunteers and may also be great areas to start.
How to Act When You See a Service Dog
Knowing how to act around service dogs is important information that not everyone understands.This is vital for families, friends, and acquaintances of those who are thinking about getting service animals. If you see a Veteran or anyone with a service dog, remember the following:
Don’t Judge the Dog
While some may have negative experiences with dogs, service animals undergo years of training and are some of the most obedient, mild-mannered canines you’ll find.Approaching any situation you might find yourself with a service dog, including breeds some might designate as “aggressive” with a calm resolution is best for you, the animal, and the handler.
Give Them Space
Respect the dog’s space and always approach the handler rather than the animal.Be respectful when asking questions. Understand that at the end of the day, it’s not your business if the handler decides to decline an explanation. Remember, some questions about service dogs have protection under the law.Furthermore, dogs are social animals just as humans can be, but if you have a dog, maintain space between them and the service animal. The same goes for small children.
Restrain Your Urge to Pet
Wanting to pet dogs is a natural feeling for many, but always ask first. These animals are serving an important purpose and are on the job.You wouldn’t want to interfere with their duty and put the handler at risk. Even if a service dog is sleeping, it’s still working. Leave it be.
No Treats or Food
Don’t give service dogs food or treats. There are allergies to consider and dietary restrictions, and like many of these other items on our list, they are a distraction.
What to Do if a Service Dog Approaches You
Ignore service dogs that approach you, but notify the owner. This could be an unwanted behavior that needs adjustment.However, if a service dog approaches you alone or is alone in general, this could be a sign that its owner needs help.Follow the animal, assess the situation, and assist them if needed. Call 911 for any emergencies.Service dogs for Veterans make an impact on the lives of their handlers and the community at large. Treating them with respect helps all parties perform their tasks safely and effectively.Related reads:
- The Warrior Dog Foundation Saves the Lives of Military K9s
- The Top 5 PTSD Service Dog Breeds For Veterans
- 11 Summer Vacation Activities for Veterans and Their Families
Sources:Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA, ADA. Accessed May 2024. https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-faqs/The Economic Impact and Cost Effectiveness of Service Dogs for Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, VA. Accessed May 2024. https://www.research.va.gov/REPORT-Study-of-Costs-and-Benefits-Associated-with-the-Use-of-Service-Dogs-Monograph2.pdfDogs and PTSD, VA. Access May 2024. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/gethelp/dogs_ptsd.aspTips & Tools - About Service Animals, TWC. Accessed May 2024. https://www.twc.texas.gov/programs/vocational-rehabilitation/service-animalsService, Working, Therapy, and Emotional Support Dogs: What’s the Difference?, AKC. Accessed May 2024. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/service-working-therapy-emotional-support-dogs/Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services, VA. Accessed May 2024. https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/ServiceAndGuideDogs.aspService Animals, ADA. Accessed May 2024. https://www.ada.gov/topics/service-animals/Best Practices When Around a Service Dog, Guide Dogs of America. Accessed May 2024. https://www.guidedogsofamerica.org/best-practices-when-around-a-service-dog/
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