Getting A Service Dog

Qualifying for a service dog is simple.

Getting a service dog. Traditionally this has included people with visual impairment hearing impairments or mobility impairments. The service dogs for america great plains assistance dogs foundation inc based out of jud north dakota provides service dogs to people eight years of age and older that suit needs from seizures to mental and physical disabilities. To qualify for a service animal all you need to do is get written documentation from your healthcare provider that you have and are being treated for an emotional or psychiatric disorder or disability and require the assistance of an animal because of it. Service dogs act as companions and aides to people who have a disability.

A person can qualify for a service dog certification if they have a disability that requires the assistance of a service dog. Although there is a fee the foundation offers scholarships and support in the fundraising efforts of applicants. You re in the right place. Staff at a public establishment cannot require documentation such as proof that the animal has been certified trained or licensed as a service dog as a condition for entry.

In order to legally qualify for a service dog you must have a disability that substantially limits your ability to perform at least one major life task without assistance. According to the americans with disabilities act ada a service dog is a dog that is individually trained to do work. Service dogs can enhance a person s independence by helping with tasks such as pulling a wheelchair opening doors turning light switches on off or picking up objects as small as a dime. A service dog helps a person with a disability lead a more independent life.

For a seizure condition to qualify the person must suffer an average of 1 seizure per month. The disability can be physical such as blindness mobility impairment seizures diabetes etc or a mental or emotional disability that requires a psychiatric service dog. Not everyone is eligible for a service dog. Actually getting one is a bit harder.

In the united states service dog certifications and service dog identifications are not a requirement. Conditions which may qualify a person for a service dog include vision impairment hearing loss ptsd autism diabetes epilepsy and multiple sclerosis ms among others. Wondering how to get a service dog.