Other Service Animal Providers

Despite the many kinds of assistance dogs NEADS provides, NEADS does not presently train balance dogs, seizure alert dogs, guide dogs for the blind, diabetes alert dogs, social dogs for adults, or emotional support dogs. For information about other assistance dog organizations, we encourage you to visit Assistance Dogs International (ADI), the internationally recognized governing body that establishes industry standards and practices. ADI provides accreditation for canine assistance organizations that meet a selective set of criteria, including standards of excellence in the acquisition, training, and partnership of assistance dogs. NEADS is proud to be an active member of ADI.

NEADS strongly encourages clients to learn as much as possible about any assistance dog organization with which they may work. 

 

Questions to ask any assistance dog organization

 

  • Is the organization an accredited Assistance Dogs International (ADI) member?
  • Is the organization listed as a not-for-profit with a 501(c)(3) status or is it a for-profit?
  • What is the cost of the dog and how are the funds raised/paid? Does the organization help with fundraising?
  • Can the organization supply the names and contact information for five clients who have had an assistance dog for at least six months? (Make sure these clients have a dog that serves a similar purpose to what you are seeking.)
  • How many dog placements are made annually by the organization?
  • What breeds are used by the organization?
  • What is the training protocol?
  • What is the follow-up procedure?
  • What is the area (state, national) where the organization will place dogs?
  • What does the contract between the trainee/applicant and the organization state as to removal of the dog from the applicant? Does the organization keep ownership of the dog after the dog is placed with an applicant?