Applicant Criteria

Applicant Eligibility Criteria

1. Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia

2. The primary handler must be at least 18 years old
   (For Autism Service Dog applicants, the child must be between 2 and 10 years old at the time of application)

3. Have a fenced yard
   (Apartment residents will be considered on a case-by-case basis)

4. Demonstrate the ability and commitment to provide for the dog’s emotional and physical well-being

5. Maintain a smoke-free home environment

6. Be able to cover the financial costs of owning and caring for the dog (see Estimate of Expenses below)

7. Have the maturity and cognitive ability to learn the necessary handling and training skills

8. Be seeking to increase independence through the assistance of a service dog

9. Be able to attend the required two-week Team Training in Charlottesville, VA
   (SDV does not provide transportation, lodging, meals, or other financial assistance for this training)

10. Have a medical situation that allows for working with and caring for a dog throughout its working life (approximately 10 years)

11. Meet the specific eligibility requirements for the program you are applying to (See Programs for details)

12. Be able to complete the Public Access Test annually for the dog’s working life

Estimate of Expenses

There is a $100 non-refundable fee to apply for a service dog. If accepted, owning a dog also comes with ongoing costs. Below is an estimate of typical yearly expenses to help you plan for the financial responsibility of caring for a service dog.

• Application Fee: $100 (non-refundable), due when submitting your completed application. This fee does not apply to the preliminary application.

• Fenced Yard: A secure, fenced yard is required for placement of a dog from SDV. This expense is the responsibility of the client and varies based on size, materials, and installation. Electric fences are not permitted. Applicants living in apartments are considered on a case-by-case basis.

• Transfer Camp Fee: $1,000, due on the first day of Transfer Camp (non-refundable). This fee primarily covers supplies for your dog’s "take-home kit."

• Transfer Camp - Travel, Lodging & Meals: You are responsible for your own hotel accommodations in Charlottesville during the two-week Transfer Camp, as well as the cost of meals. Hotel rates vary based on your choice of lodging.