When Veterans first learn about professionally trained PTSD service dogs from Northwest Battle Buddies (NWBB), questions naturally arise. "How can a service dog help with my symptoms?" "What's the application process like?" "How long will I wait?" .
Considering a PTSD service dog is a significant decision and having clear, honest answers is crucial. We've compiled the most commonly asked questions from American Heroes exploring this life-changing partnership.
Pre-Application Questions
I have PTSD. What can a service dog do for me?
PTSD service dogs perform specific tasks to help manage PTSD symptoms. For example, NWBB’s service dogs are trained to interrupt nightmares, provide deep pressure therapy during anxiety attacks, create physical barriers in crowded spaces, and so much more.
According to a recent study, Veterans with service dogs report increased independence, an overall healthier well-being, a reduction in PTSD symptoms, and improved sleep quality, among many other benefits.
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Give Veterans the Gift of Independence Training a PTSD service dog costs $25,000, but NWBB provides them free of charge to Veterans. Your monthly donation through Operation Never Quit directly funds these life-changing partnerships for American Heroes who need them most. |
What qualifies someone to have a NWBB PTSD service dog?
NWBB has established specific eligibility criteria to ensure successful partnerships between Veterans and PTSD service dogs. Applicants must meet several fundamental requirements, including:
Military Service Requirements:
- Deployed Veteran who served overseas or in a designated operational area
- Honorable discharge from the armed services
- Member 4 or Service 2 copy of your DD214
Medical Requirements:
- A formal PTSD diagnosis from a medical professional
- Willingness to share specific symptoms identified by healthcare providers
- Willingness to share mental health treatment history, including both inpatient and outpatient care
Personal Readiness Standards:
- Clean and sober for at least three years with independent confirmation
- Willingness to undergo drug testing for controlled substances
- Disclosure of past addiction to, or treatment for, alcohol or illegal substance abuse
- Consent to comprehensive background checks covering employment, financial, and legal history from the past 10 years
Can I apply for a service dog if I’m still on active duty?
Yes, we can place service dogs with qualified active-duty personnel. The service member's command must submit, in writing, approval to participate in our 5-week training program and handle a service dog while performing their duties.
Does NWBB provide hypoallergenic service dogs?
No – NWBB does not specifically train or place hypoallergenic breeds as service dogs. Unfortunately, many of the breeds that make the best service dogs, like labs and golden retrievers, are not hypoallergenic.
What's the difference between a service dog, emotional support animal, and therapy dog?
There’s a big difference between service dogs and other emotional support animals. Service dogs are individually trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities and have full public access rights. Emotional support animals provide comfort through companionship but aren't task-trained and have limited public access. Therapy dogs provide comfort to multiple people in facilities like hospitals but aren't for individual handlers.
What is the average life span of a NWBB service dog?
Ideally, each dog will have eight to ten good working years. Once the service dog is ready to retire, the dog becomes a pet in the home, and the Veteran is placed at the top of our list to receive their next service dog if they want another.
Application Process Questions
How do I apply for a service dog?
If you meet the minimum requirements listed above, complete our pre-application questionnaire. If your answers qualify, you'll receive an invitation to fill out an application and submit your DD214 (Member 4 copy) and supporting documents within 7 business days.
For questions, contact our Veteran Liaison at veteran.liaison@northwestbattlebuddies.org or (360) 558-2049.
How much do NWBB service dogs cost?
While PTSD service dogs are expensive to raise and train (each dog must undergo foster care, then a minimum of 5 months of training), there is no cost to the Veteran. Our program provides service dogs completely free of charge, although the Veteran must pay for their own travel to the training facility and for room and board once there.
Once a Veteran graduates from our program, they are financially responsible for the service dog's ongoing care.
How long does it take to get a NWBB service dog?
Once approved, you'll join our waiting list. Wait times depend on dog availability, application order, and finding the right fit between service dog and Veteran — some Veterans start training within months, others wait longer. Our Veteran Liaison can provide you with a more accurate timeline during the application process.
Training Process Questions
How do I get matched with a NWBB service dog?
NWBB uses a three-step process to pair Veterans with a service dog. First, our Veteran Liaison gathers detailed information about each Veteran's lifestyle and needs, while trainers spend five months learning each dog's temperament and strengths. One week before pairing, trainers study Veteran profiles and make recommendations. On arrival day, trainers conduct in-person interviews and observations, then combine all information to create matches.
How long do I train once paired with a service dog?
Our training phase lasts 5 weeks and takes place in various locations. Training ensures that you and the dog work well together and that you understand how to handle your service dog according to ADA and Northwest Battle Buddies’ guidelines.
Can you train my puppy/dog to be a PTSD service dog?
It’s certainly a possibility, although there are many variables regarding personally owned dogs. Please reach out to our Veteran liaison at (360) 558-2049 to discuss your specific circumstances.
Alternatively, Service Dog Training School is an online training platform that allows owners to work with their own dogs to receive the training they need to become working service dogs. However, training your dog on your own can be costly, challenging, and time consuming (it can take up to two years). There’s also the risk that your dog (while a great pet) won’t make a good service dog.
How do I maintain my dog's training over time?
We’ll teach you what to do with your dog at home during our 5-week training program. If you’ve never owned a dog before, don’t worry – check out these two resources:
Questions About Daily Life With a Service Dog
Where are PTSD service dogs legally allowed to go?
PTSD service dogs are allowed anywhere the public is permitted, including restaurants, stores, airplanes, and housing with "no pets" policies. They're protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) service dog laws.
What documentation do I need to carry?
Service dog owners are not required to carry any documentation. Under the ADA, businesses cannot require proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service dog, nor can they require medical documentation or special identification cards.
Staff are only allowed to ask two questions: (1) Is this a service animal required because of a disability? and (2) What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
Are there any downsides or challenges to having a service dog?
Yes, handlers face some challenges owning a service dog, including:
- Educating people who want to pet their working dog
- Managing curious questions about their disability
- Dealing with businesses unfamiliar with service dog laws
- Planning for their dog's needs in non-pet-friendly places
- Committing to lifelong care, even through potential health issues
While manageable with preparation, these realities are important to consider.
What follow up services are available once I return home?
After graduation, NWBB provides lifetime training support for you and your service dog. Our staff will promptly address any questions or concerns that arise. All service dog teams must recertify annually, including public access testing and continuing training, to ensure your partnership remains strong and effective throughout your dog's working life.
Your Path Forward
If you're ready to explore how a PTSD service dog might transform your life, we encourage you to reach out. Your journey toward greater independence and well-being could begin with a simple phone call.
Contact our Veteran Liaison at (360) 558-2049 or review the application process on our website to learn more about beginning this life-changing partnership.
Want to help other Veterans get access to PTSD service dogs? Donate monthly through Operation Never Quit (ONQ). Your regular contribution directly impacts a Veteran's path to healing and independence – join ONQ today.