They're highly social and need close "family" relationships as much as they need food, shelter and exercise. Like people, each dog has its own unique personality, feelings and needs. Dogs, however, cannot "understand" why something does or doesn't happen, which is why it's essential for owners to assume responsibility for their care and needs. In return, dogs are eager to please and serve their owners. 

What happens if you get a service dog?

It's important that the relationship between you and a service dog be one of mutual caring and support. Building a close working relationship takes time. When a dog is initially teamed with you, it's already changed homes and "families" two or three times since birth and experienced several different training environments. It will need a period of adjustment as it shifts allegiance from its previous trainer to you. The dog needs to learn how to trust and respect you as the new leader of its extended family. This will be a time of confusion for the dog and you need to be patient and supportive.

You'll be making a big adjustment, too.

The dog's arrival will be like adding a new family member. Routines will change and priorities rearranged. A dog has natural canine needs that must be met at appropriate times whether it's convenient for you or not. If you are unable to meet these needs yourself, you're still responsible for making sure someone takes care of the dog. Even though a service dog will be highly trained by the time it's transferred to you, incidents may occur that are the result of stress, illness or extreme change in routine. This might include unwanted elimination, chewing, barking or vomiting. As unpleasant as these incidents are, immediate clean-up is necessary. Housecleaning chores will also increase, due to dog hair, tracked in dirt, etc.

Training for both of you!

When we have a match, you and your dog will be required to complete three weeks of Team Training courses held at our training center.  Graduates are required to attend monthly follow-up sessions at our training center for the first year following placement of a service dog. Once the transfer is complete, you are responsible for continuing the training exercises and reinforcing the dog appropriately for doing its tasks well. No matter how long you have had your service dog, Helping Paws staff is always available for follow-up training.

Do you have the time and energy?

Ask yourself. . ."Am I willing to make the commitment necessary to have a service dog?" If you've thought this over carefully - and you have the desire to maintain your independence - it's time to think about what you'd want a dog to do for you. Sit down and make a list of specific tasks, such as retrieving objects, turning lights on or off, opening or closing doors. At this point, don't worry whether or not the dog is capable of doing these tasks. We just want to know what you really need help with. Our staff will assess the feasibility of training a dog to do the tasks. Because safety for both you and the dog is a major consideration in making an appropriate team match, it's very important we find out as much as possible about you.

If you are accepted into the program.

Once accepted and matched with a service dog, you will be given the education and training you need to assure the dog is cared for appropriately and to acquire the skills to work with and use your dog in the best possible way. On-going contact with you and your dog will be maintained by Helping Paws. It's very important to us that you and your dog are a successful working team. You will be an "ambassador" for Helping Paws. We also want you to be pleased with your service dog and pleased with Helping Paws, and we want the dog to be a well cared for and devoted worker.

Still Interested?

To review the application process for obtaining a Helping Paws Service Dog, click here.