get help by training your own dog to be your service dog
program update
Service Dogs for Patriots is adjusting its service model in response to a significant decline in fundraising and current economic conditions.
We are not able to offer free training to new participants at this time.
We remain committed to supporting people affected by PTSD through trained service dogs. Grant funding will continue to support veterans currently enrolled in our program, and we will honor our commitment to their training.
program updates - subsidies and expanded eligibility
Subsidies and Expanded Eligibility
When grant and community funding is available, we will offer subsidized PTSD service-dog training for:
- Veterans
- First responders, including law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS personnel
- Health-care workers
- Teachers
Subsidies reduce the cost of training by $50 per session, bringing the participant cost to $80 per session. Most adult dogs require approximately 45 weekly sessions over one year, for an estimated participant cost of $3,600—considerably less than the average $20,000 cost of purchasing a fully trained service dog.
Subsidies are available only as funding is acquired. Information about requesting subsidized training will be posted on our website and social media once the new process is finalized.
Training Requirements
- Participants must provide their own dog.
- We do not provide dogs, train dogs separately for placement, or offer group classes.
- Training is weekly, individualized, owner-led, trainer-directed, trauma-informed, and rooted in cooperative practices.
- We remain neurodivergent- and LGBTQIA-friendly.
Frequently asked questions
How long does service dog training take? On average, it takes 9-12 months to train an adult dog to become a service dog. That includes basic obedience training on your part, prior to service dog training.
What if I already have a dog I want to be my service dog? Great! Your dog will be evaluated at your first training session.
What if I don't have a dog yet? No problem. You should reach out to local humane societies and breeders of merit to acquire a dog. Your dog belongs to you and lives with you.
Where does training take place? Training is in Gainesville, FL. You'll meet weekly with your trainer at our office at first, then in public settings.
I need immediate help with service dog training. For those seeking immediate service-dog training, Gainesville Canine Academy offers the same individualized program with the experienced trainers who support Service Dogs for Patriots. Sessions are $130 each. Visit www.GainesvilleCanineAcademy.com for information.