FSD Skilled Companion Dog Application

Before filling out this application, please read through the criteria below to confirm you are eligible to apply for a Skilled Companion Dog. Freedom Service Dogs of America (FSD) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, HIV/AIDS status, physical or mental disability.

 

Criteria for applying:

1. Must be at least 21 years of age.

2. Must be active military, veteran, Gold Star family, active or retired first responder, and provide appropriate documentation. 

3. Willing to travel, at own expense, to FSD’s facility within 7 days of notification to meet a potential dog.

4. All household members are required to meet a potential dog.

5. If there is a dog(s) already living in applicant’s home, they must be brought to FSD’s facility to meet with a potential dog.

6. Provide current household pet records, and pet agreements if lease/rent.

7. Understand Skilled Companion Dogs have been released from our formal service dog training program and do not have public access rights under the American With Disabilities Act. Skilled Companion Dogs cannot be used for any type of work, including service or therapy. 

 

IF YOU NEED PUBLIC ACCESS AND ARE INTERESTED IN APPLYING FOR A SERVICE DOG PLEASE GO BACK TO OUR WEBSITE AND FILL OUT OUR SERVICE DOG APPLICATION.


Our goal is to place dogs in permanent, loving homes. Please complete this application so we can assist you in finding a special, compatible companion to join your family.  We do not place our dogs on a "first come, first served" basis, but rather try to match families with a dog based on best fit. With this information, we can minimize the risk of a failed placement by matching the right dog with you. Your answers will not necessarily disqualify you as an applicant.


We do not charge a fee for our Skilled Companion Dogs; however, we ask for a suggested donation. This helps us partially recuperate the costs incurred during the dog's time in our program, including medical expenses, vaccinations, basic care, and basic skills training. 

 

PLEASE NOTE: All animals are the legal property of Freedom Service Dogs until the requisite Ownership Transfer Agreement is signed and all requirements of the Agreement are met. The dogs are placed in permanent homes at our discretion. Freedom Service Dogs may refuse to place a dog to anyone without providing a specific reason.

 

When submitting a Skilled Companion Dog application, you will be automatically signed up to receive our monthly e-newsletter from Freedom Service Dogs.  You may opt out of email updates at any time.



Military/First Responder Status









Name





Current Address







Permanent Address






Why FSD?






Adjustment Period
Although our dogs are socialized to new homes and environments since puppyhood, it is still important for a recipient of a Skilled Companion Dog to recognize that a transition may not be immediate for a new dog. Any major change to a new environment can cause stress and requires patience.


Dog Activity Level and Traits




Family / Home Information
To help ensure we're looking for the right dog for your home and lifestyle, we'll need more information on the people who live with you. Using the guidelines below, please let us know as much as possible about anyone who resides in the same home as you.

Household Member 1




Household Member 2




Household Member 3




Household Member 4




Household Member 5




Household Member 6








Home Life













Other Pets





Previous Adoption History




Financial Impact
The below questions are meant for you to think critically about the financial impact a dog may have on your life. Freedom Service Dogs does requires you to assume the financial responsibility to care for your dog, including (but not limited to) food, veterinary care, treats, toys, beds, and boarding. Please carefully consider the following questions.






References
Please list the name, email and phone number for two (2) individuals -- one a professional and one personal (cannot be a family member, partner or spouse) who is willing to be a reference for you.
Reference 1




Reference 2




Additional Information



Hidden fields