6-24 months.

There are a variety of factors which affect the time it takes to train a service dog to full competency out in public. Some of which include how familiar you are with the proper training protocols, how mature your dog is and if your dog has less than desirable traits to train through. If you are coming into the coaching program with your own dog you will need to go through our application and assessment process which will help give us a ballpark of what will be required for your dog to be fully trustworthy in public.

Lehigh Valley service dogs is the only specialist service dog training program for owners and their dogs in the Lehigh Valley.

We’ve seen bounce back from other local trainers in the area who do not specialize in service dogs. It is better to train your dog right the first time, than bouncing around from non-specialists.

We work with a variety of clients from varying backgrounds, including starting with a dog you may already have as your companion, or choosing a new dog that will be best suited for your needs and ability. Our ideal client comes to us at least three to four months before picking up their puppy. We have them handle and practice skills with our current dogs and prepare their home for their new companion.

Nonprofit service dog training programs typically provide a dog already trained for you at a reduced cost. However, there is typically a 6 to 24 month wait list to receive one of these dogs. And not every applicant will qualify for those programs. This is where Lehigh Valley service dogs steps in to fill the gap. We have immediate availability to begin training your dog to help you.

Not every nonprofit provides dogs that have exactly the skills that applied to you and your disability. Many dogs are taught generalized tasks for disabilities that may not even apply to you.

We are not a nonprofit organization at this time. We do not provide dogs for free though that may be on the horizon.

If you would like to start the application process reach out to us here.

Emotional support animals are not allowed out in public in non-pet friendly places. Your emotional support animal cannot go with you to Walmart for grocery shopping or sit down with you at a restaurant. An animal that provides comfort and emotional support should not be in these locations. They are considered pets.

If you find yourself needing an animal with you to provide assistance in your daily life you need a service dog. Service dogs require special training of tasks in which to assist you in your daily life. Dogs that know tasks and assist their handlers can be psychiatric service dogs (such as for PTSD), diabetic alert service dogs, autism assistance service dogs, and many others.

If you are looking for a therapy dog, which is a dog trained to assist groups of people during stressful times, reach out to us and we can guide you through that process.

Between 2,400 and 24,000 over 6 months to 2 years.

We have flexible coaching and board and training options available for every budget. We do our best to set our clients up for success once they go through our application and assessment process. We cannot give an estimate before you complete this process. We have this process in place to get to know you and your dog. Every team is different in their needs and ability and it is our job to tailor your sessions to those needs.

Yes!

Programs such as SSI, Health Savings Accounts and private learning programs in your child’s education program may support you financially in your pursuit for a service dog.

Additionally, fundraising is a successful way to raise money. It is always helpful to get the most eyes on your fundraising process. Even in economic downturns there are always people who are willing and have the ability to help.

Likely. Costs associated with the purchase of a dog, training costs, veterinary bills, food (if prescribed by the veterinarian), and other expenses may all be tax deductible! Please consult your tax preparer for additional information.