Application Process – Assistance Dogs of the Heartland

Qualifications for Service Dog

To qualify for a service dog, you must have either a mental or physical disability that interferes with a least one aspect of your life that the animal can help to alleviate. You also need to get an official diagnosis form a health provider (such as a physician or licensed therapist).

Specific Requirements:

Must live within 50 miles of Omaha, Nebraska
Permanent residence with clean living conditions and an area for dog to run, play, relax when off-duty.
Steady financial income to provide food and care for the dog.
Able to safely transport Service Dog.
Attend scheduled dog training classes
No prior or pending felony or animal abuse charges
Responsible for taking service dog to vet appointments, ensure dog is up-to-date on vaccines and retain vet records after each visit
State or city animal dog license renewed annually
Recipient must be involved with ongoing training for Service Dog

Assistance Dogs of the Heartland reserves the right to remove a Service Dog in the event of abuse or the handler is unable to care for the dog or meet the above requirements.

Complete Online Application

Fill out the detailed application form on our website, providing information about your specific needs and circumstances.

Step 1

Assessment & Interview

Our team will review your application and schedule a comprehensive assessment to understand your requirements and lifestyle better. Participate in an interview with our specialists to discuss your needs and how a service dog can assist you.

Step 2

Matching & Training

Based on your assessment, we will match you with a service dog that suits your needs. Both you and the dog will undergo specialized training to ensure a successful partnership.

Step 3

Receive Your Service Dog

Transition with your new service dog, including initial support and guidance from our trainers. Enjoy continuous support from our team to ensure a smooth and effective integration of the service dog into your daily life.

Step 4

Ready to Apply?

Complete the Online Application

Application Fee: $25 This application fee is essential to cover the costs associated with conducting thorough background checks for applicants seeking a service dog. This process ensures that we maintain a safe and supportive environment for both the dogs and their future handlers. By vetting applicants carefully, we can better match service dogs with those who truly need their assistance, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness of the service they provide. Thank you for your understanding and support in ensuring the highest standards for our program. We will follow up once the application is submitted to collect payment.