SERVICE DOGS OF DISTINCTION INC

Service Dogs of Distinction Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization. Our program focuses on building relationships with each veteran, pinpointing their needs, and procuring an appropriate dog that best suits those needs, and train both dog and veteran to become a successful team.

Our process starts with the veteran submitting an application. We then schedule a face to face interview where we learn about the veteran and their specific needs. Once specific needs are identified, we procure a suitable dog. Each one of our trainers take prospect dogs into their homes for foundation skills training. Each veteran begins our pre-pairing training to learn handling skills, training methods, and service dog etiquette. They work with various dogs in the program for 30-60 days building the desired proficiency we look for before pairing them with their own dog. Once paired, the team begins weekly training sessions. Each session is designed to build the veteran’s confidence in their ability to be a part of training their own dog. Each week we train for specific behaviors and assign training homework to be completed between sessions. With a receptive veteran, a calm, attentive, loving dog can help the veteran focus on the immediate. This in itself has great therapeutic value. The veteran begins to trust this new relationship and put faith in the dog’s commitment to the job of “battle buddy.”

Throughout our 12-14 month program, there are various levels of testing. Through specifically designed phases, each veteran/dog team train toward passing the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Canine Good Citizenship test, the Assistance Dog International (ADI) Public Access Test, and the International Association of Assistance Dog Proffesionals (IAADP) task test.