How to Apply
First: Review the Eligibility Requirements, FAQs, and Procedure for Application.
Eligibility Requirements:
- For EMRD and Mobility Assistance dogs, applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess the physical and developmental capacity to handle a service dog independently.
- If applying for a PTSD service dog, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must possess the physical and developmental capacity to handle a service dog independently
- Must have an official PTSD diagnosis from a qualified and licensed mental health professional
- Must be actively engaged in therapy for a minimum of one (1) year for the PTSD diagnosis
- Applicant must reside within the lower 48 United States and be able to travel to the SDA campus in Jud, North Dakota for training.
- Applicant must present a verifiable medical need for a service dog and understand SDA may not be able to train a dog specific to their needs.
- Applicant must be available and willing to communicate with SDA staff throughout the application and placement process.
- Applicant must demonstrate proficiency in handling a service dog at home and in a variety of public environments, while managing the dog’s safety, behavior, and working skills.
- Applicant will be required to supply proof of financial resources sufficient for the care of a service dog, including veterinarian care.
Please Note: A service dog must never be trained or reinforced for guarding or protection behaviors. Per our accreditation requirements, Service Dogs for America does not train for behaviors such as guarding, protecting, or searching rooms or spaces for an enemy or threat.
Next: Once you have reviewed the entire Procedure for Application document, if you would like to proceed, please complete the Preliminary Application via the button below*.
- Preliminary applications are reviewed in a timely manner. If the applicant meets SDA’s selection criteria, a letter will be sent out along with a full application packet to the address provided.
- *If you need a printed version of the Preliminary Application or have any questions, please contact us at (701) 685-5003 or client.services@servicedogsforamerica.org
*We, like much of the country, are experiencing staffing shortages. Due to these shortages, we are experiencing a delay in processing preliminary and full applications. We are working diligently to remedy the situation and apologize for the unexpected delays. Thank you, in advance, for your patience.
