By Tammy's Treasures | June 19, 2012 at 09:00 PM EDT |
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Over the past two months I have had a couple families ask me about these wonderful programs. After much research I have found a couple organizations that assist with the cost, training and making sure it is an appropriate choice for families.
www.pawswithacause.org
Paws with a Cause was at the top of my Google search. Some of the questions that they highlight on their website are
Who is eligible to apply for a PAWS dog?
People with a physical disability, hearing impairment, seizure disorder, or a child with autism who can demonstrate that an Assistance Dog will enhance their independence or their quality of life are qualified to apply.
PAWS can only accept a limited number of applications per year. Although many individuals with disabilities are eligible and in need of an assistance dog, PAWS will determine and select those individuals where the tasks provided by PAWS's highly trained dogs will be of the greatest benefit.
What are the age requirements to apply?
Individuals applying for a Service or Seizure Dog must be at least 14 years old with an established, stable home life. Individuals applying for a Hearing Dog must be at least 18 years old with an established, stable home life. Families applying for a Service Dog for a Child with Autism must have their child enrolled in ongoing education and supplemental therapy programs, and the child must be between 4-10 years of age. Children must be at least 8 years old to be considered for a Social Support Dog.
How much does it cost?
The sponsorship of a PAWS Assistance Dog is $30,000. However, the dog is provided at no cost to the Client.
How long is the application process?
The application process from start through completion of the in-home interview may take 12-24 months. If accepted at the end of the process, the client will go onto the waiting list for funding; it may take up to three years for PAWS to secure funding for your Assistance Dog. PAWS clients are encouraged to participate in fundraising efforts on their own behalf, under the guidance of a PAWS Development Relations Officer. Once funding is secured, the search to find an appropriate dog will begin. Depending on the individual needs of the client, it may take many months to find an appropriate dog.
Some other organizations to check as well are...
www.4pawsforability.org
www.arfkids.com www.cci.org
www.northstardogs.com
www.servicedogworld.com
www.wags4kids.org www.assistancedogsinternational.org
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