VA Dogs Screening Information
| guidelines_for_potential_vadogs_service_dogs.pdf |
Guidelines for potential service dogs:
Nature vs Nurture
Keeping in mind the veteran will not be a dog trainer, we are in search of that special Temperament where the dog is NATURALLY willing to stay close to his person vs a dog who is very social, loves everyone, and needs to be NURTURED to stay close.
Why is this so important?
For the most part, these dogs will not be under constant command while out in public. So it's very helpful if we start with a dog who already has that innate quality of wanting to hang with you.
Strong Like Lion
Many dogs will be trained for a veteran needing mobility or stability support. We xray all potential dogs, no matter what they will be slated for. If the hips check out, we move to knees, elbows, and back.
This is a very costly process but the VADogs is committed to giving the veteran a sound dog that will last for years. Therefore, we are looking for dogs:
Why is this so important?
In most cases, the veterans are on a fixed or limited income. So a dog with chronic issues could be too costly.
In addition, many of them have waited years for a service dog. A lot of time and money has gone into finishing a dog. So it would not be in the program’s best interest to start a dog who physically would not stand the test of time.
No No’s
* Although not a complete reason to turn a Dog down, the trainers need to know for the safety of the dog.
It is important to know that WE know we are looking for that extra special diamond in the rough. Not all dogs are cut out for this lifestyle. Many, many dogs we evaluate will make excellent dogs for someone, but missing that one or more quality would keep them from being a service dog.
And that's ok! Through all of us working together we can expand the effort to get all these wonderful dogs permanent, loving homes!!
We look forward to evaluating your next candidate.
Nature vs Nurture
Keeping in mind the veteran will not be a dog trainer, we are in search of that special Temperament where the dog is NATURALLY willing to stay close to his person vs a dog who is very social, loves everyone, and needs to be NURTURED to stay close.
Why is this so important?
For the most part, these dogs will not be under constant command while out in public. So it's very helpful if we start with a dog who already has that innate quality of wanting to hang with you.
Strong Like Lion
Many dogs will be trained for a veteran needing mobility or stability support. We xray all potential dogs, no matter what they will be slated for. If the hips check out, we move to knees, elbows, and back.
This is a very costly process but the VADogs is committed to giving the veteran a sound dog that will last for years. Therefore, we are looking for dogs:
- 1 to 3yrs old
- 35lbs or more
- Medium height ( roughly 20” at the shoulders) and above
- No visible signs of poor structure
- No visible signs of health issues (skin allergies, chronic coughing, heart or eye issues, etc)
Why is this so important?
In most cases, the veterans are on a fixed or limited income. So a dog with chronic issues could be too costly.
In addition, many of them have waited years for a service dog. A lot of time and money has gone into finishing a dog. So it would not be in the program’s best interest to start a dog who physically would not stand the test of time.
No No’s
- Chases things that move: be it playful or aggressive
- Nips: other animals or people
- * Jumps fences / escape artist: Dogs that escape to get back with the owner is different from dogs jumping a fence to chase, run away, or just because they can.
- Super fearful of things
- Overly confident, to the brink of pushy or bullying
- Overly anxious or panics.
- * Doesn't “like” other dogs or cats.
- Shows aggravation or lashes out.
* Although not a complete reason to turn a Dog down, the trainers need to know for the safety of the dog.
It is important to know that WE know we are looking for that extra special diamond in the rough. Not all dogs are cut out for this lifestyle. Many, many dogs we evaluate will make excellent dogs for someone, but missing that one or more quality would keep them from being a service dog.
And that's ok! Through all of us working together we can expand the effort to get all these wonderful dogs permanent, loving homes!!
We look forward to evaluating your next candidate.