Facility DogS

Facility dogs are trained to work with more than one person in facilities like courthouses, schools, counseling centers or hospitals. Unlike service dogs that work with one person, professionally trained facility dogs work with a handler to serve multiple people who need social interaction, recovery motivation, comfort and/or a feeling of safety.

Facility Dog Applicant Criteria:

  • Be employed working a minimum of 20 hours a week with an “at risk” population

  • Have approval from employer for the use of a facility dog

  • Please see Applicant Criteria for more criteria

If you are interested for applying for a service dog, please see the Application Process for details.

How can Facility Dogs Help?

 In the classroom… These dogs are trained in specific tasks that teachers can incorporate into their classroom teaching. They are matched with special education faculty.

In a hospital… These dogs are partners for hospital staff who are looking for a way to help alleviate the stress and trauma of patients and their families while in the hospital. They are trained to remain calm and focused in many high stress environments.

 In the courtroom… These dogs assist crime victims, witnesses, and others during investigation and prosecution of crimes as well as other legal proceedings. They are trained to not disrupt legal proceedings.

 In counseling settings… These dogs are trained to work alongside the professional and create an atmosphere where people open up more easily. The dog can even attract someone to counseling who may be reluctant to get help.

Click on the video to hear about Rami’s and Josie’s work at Va Tech where Josie serves as a Facility Dog .