How to Certify a Service Dog
If you want to be certified for a service dog, just follow these 5 steps:
- Identify whether you have an ADA-eligible disability (which can be physical or psychiatric).
- Get a health confirmation letter from your doctor or therapist. This step is optional, but a PSD letter can be helpful backup documentation.
- Train your dog to perform a task that helps with your condition.
- Make sure your dog is comfortable in public spaces; they should be able to pass a public access test.
- Certify your dog’s service dog status by getting a certificate stating you’ve met all service dog requirements — but remember, this step is not required.
You can’t qualify for a service dog just by getting a certification. Certifications are used by service dog owners for personal convenience, but they are not required under ADA rules. If someone refuses to let your service dog in because you don’t have a certificate, they are in the wrong. To verify a service dog, they can ask you just two questions: 1. Is the dog a service dog required for a disability? and 2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
ADA Service Dog Certification Requirements
Here’s something that might surprise you: service dogs don’t need any official paperwork to do their important work! The ADA keeps things simple — no special licenses or registrations are required. This is what is stated on the official ADA website:
“Covered entities may not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal, as a condition for entry.”
What really matters is that your service dog is well-trained and can perform specific tasks to help with your disability. But here’s something to consider — while certification isn’t required, getting your service dog certified voluntarily can make life easier.
Think of it like having a VIP pass at a concert. Sure, you can still get in without it, but having one might make the whole experience smoother. With a certificate stating you’ve qualified as a service dog owner, you’ll sometimes face fewer questions when entering stores or restaurants, and some property managers might be more welcoming when you’re looking for housing. Just remember: whether you choose to get a certificate or not, the law is still on your side, and businesses must respect your right to have your service dog with you.
Service Dog Certifiers
In the U.S., there is no government certification program for service dogs. No organization or company has been sanctioned under ADA rules as an official service dog certifier.
Certification of a service dog is done voluntarily by service dog owners through private organizations like us here at Service Dog Certifications. You can get accessories like vests, tags, ID cards, and certificates from organizations like ours to make your life as a service dog handler in public areas easier.
How to Train a Certified Service Dog
If you want your dog to be a certified service dog, you do it through training the dog to help with your disability. A certificate can demonstrate that you completed the training, but you can’t just buy a certificate and call it a day. When training a dog to become a certified service animal, you have three main options: self-training, group classes, or individual training. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, especially for service animals.
Self-Training
Self-training is the cheapest option and means teaching your service dog on your own. One benefit is that you and your dog can form a greater bond during the experience and also have the flexibility to train when the time suits you. Plus, you’ll gain skills to train your dog in new tasks as your needs change.
For example, if you train your dog to retrieve items, you’ll learn to break down complex tasks into smaller steps. This knowledge can help when you need to teach new services later, like opening doors or providing balance support.
Group Classes
Looking to save money on service dog training? Group classes offer an affordable sweet spot between expensive private lessons and budget-friendly self-training.
One of the biggest perks of group training is the real-world practice your dog gets. Your future service dog will learn to stay focused on you even when other dogs are nearby – a must-have skill for public access work. It can help your dog calmly ignore other animals at the grocery store or stay perfectly still under a restaurant table.
During these classes, you’ll work on essential service dog commands like “leave it,” “stay,” and “under” alongside other handlers. Plus, there’s a hidden benefit: you’ll connect with people who truly understand your journey. Many handlers find lasting friendships and valuable support networks through group classes.
But before you sign up, consider your schedule. Most group classes meet at set times, usually once or twice a week. While this regular schedule helps build a routine, it might clash with work or medical appointments. Some training centers offer evening or weekend options to help with scheduling challenges.
Individual Training
Private service dog training sessions are more expensive than the previous options, making them the premium choice for handler-dog teams. But here’s what that investment really buys you: undivided attention from a certified professional trainer who focuses solely on your unique needs and goals.
Think of it like having a personal coach for you and your dog. Your trainer creates a custom training plan that targets specific tasks tied to your disability. For example, if you have mobility challenges, they’ll teach your dog to:
- Brace for stability during transfers
- Retrieve dropped items with gentle mouth control
- Push accessibility buttons
- Help with removing clothing items
- Navigate tight spaces safely
One of the biggest advantages? Your trainer’s expert eye. They can spot your dog’s natural talents and transform them into reliable service tasks. Maybe your dog naturally paws at you when anxious – a skilled trainer could shape this into a panic attack response. These personalized insights are incredibly valuable for developing effective assistance dogs.
Flexibility is another key benefit. Private trainers often work around your schedule, energy levels, and medical appointments. This means you can train when you’re at your best rather than push through a pre-set class time when you might not feel well.
Service dogs are there for you!
The path to having a certified service dog might seem overwhelming at first, but remember – you have options that can fit your unique situation. Whether you choose self-training, group classes, or private instruction, the most important thing is ensuring your dog can reliably perform the tasks you need. While an actual certificate isn’t legally required under the ADA, it can make daily life smoother and provide extra confidence in public settings.
Remember that becoming a successful service dog team isn’t about which training method you choose or whether you decide to get certified – it’s about the dedication you put into the process. Take time to evaluate your needs, budget, and schedule before deciding. And most importantly, focus on developing a strong bond with your dog while ensuring they’re properly trained for public access work.
If you’re just starting your service dog journey, consider reaching out to experienced handlers or professional trainers for guidance. They can provide valuable insights based on real-world experience and help you avoid common pitfalls. With proper training and preparation, your service dog can become an invaluable partner in your daily life.
About the Author: The writing team at Service Dog Certifications is made up of folks who really know their stuff when it comes to disability laws and assistance animals. Many of our writers and editors have service dogs themselves and share insights from their own experiences. All of us have a passion for disability rights and animals.
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Very informative. I am 70 now and suffering from hearing problems an x also panic attacks when i go out. So would love to know more. My dog us 9 months old poiske x with Cavashon very intelligent.
I was stop abruptly in the entryway of the Social security office in St. Cloud Mn. By the Security guard for Social Security office. This msn ran up on me startled both of my service dogs they volted and hit the floor behind me. while this man interrogated, degraded me with his 50 questions ,humiliated me in front of 30 people or more. I hate being disabled noless noless having phyical and mental disabilities from a malfunctioning medical device leaveing me with these 2 small dogs for a someone of an independent life. Then i reported him for harrassment which only escalated the issue and supervisor refuse to give a reference number to the issue or even get back to me letting me know weather the problem had ben resolve or not. She said she didn’t have to do anything about the matter cause they are run by the federal government and the rules and laws do not apply to them.
I didn’t ask to to be disabled and my heart goes out to anyone who has had to deal with rude, disrespectful and Arrogant renta a cop who has little man syndrome.
I was also interrogated at the social security office but he only asked the legal questions is she trained and what is she trained for – it was still off putting that social security is not familiar with the ADA laws
What he did was illegal regardless. Legally there are only a few specific questions they are allowed to ask you. Mainly ” what service does your dog provide” you are required to answer with a specific task. If you don’t provide that then they can assume the dog is not a service animal. If you answer properly then they can not continue to question and must assume you are legit unless dog starts acting a fool then your dog can be made to be removed.
My chihuahua knows when my anxiety gets to high before I actually realize what is wrong. She will love on me until I forget about whatever problem was. Can she be a service dog and how do I go about getting her certified!? Panic attacks in Walmart are not fun!
Please check out the ADA website for more information
It seems like when you try and find a service dog or say that is what you are looking for that is when the price goes up.. wish insurance would help.
I have a question.. My dog is an ESA.. with a vest does that count as being a “service dog”? I am having problems where i live with him being denied access because he has an ESA vest.
An ESA and a service dog are not the same. They are both assistance animals, they do have different functions and different rights. And to have a legitimate ESA you would need an ESA letter. With the ESA letter, your ESA should have the right to live with you, even in housing with a no-pets policy. You may find this article on the difference between ESA and service dogs interesting: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/is-an-emotional-support-animal-same-as-a-service-dog/
I would like to know if you can point me in the right direction of having my 2 dogs listed as emotional support. They are all that keeps me going when I become upset and everything after my husband passed away and my children are no longer with me I am on a fixed income can I just don’t know what to do I don’t want to have to get rid of my dogs because they are the only thing that’s keeping me motivated and and going they’re my shoulders to cry on my teddy bear is a hug if there’s any way you can help me please let me know
I’m very sorry to hear about your loss. Under HUD guidelines, multiple ESAs are allowed, as long as the tenant has a recommendation covering each ESA from a licensed healthcare professional. Airlines however will generally only allow you to fly with one ESA. You may find this article on how to qualify for an ESA interesting.
https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/how-to-qualify-for-an-emotional-support-animal/
How can I made my dog a serive dog for my problems I have diabetes and seizures and I fall a lot
First, you would need to identify what kind of tasks your service dog could perform to help you. Then you need to train your dog to perform these tasks. Once the dog can perform the tasks and has completed training for public access, you can certify your service dog. You may find this article on the basics of service dog training interesting: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-training-guide-the-basics/
My highly trained service dog would NEVER bolt. She is impervious to people running, shouting or waving their arms about. She ignores other animals, noises or distractions and focuses entirely on her job…to keep me safe. I am sorry that the person’s dogs were startled, but a properly trained dog would never bolt.
So very sorry u had this experience Perhaps having a copy of the ADA
FEDERAL laws on hand mite avoid it re occurring in the future.
In addition, having a letter from your doctor confirming ur diagnosis qualifies u for having a service dog accompany you & if there’s other types of accommodations that ADA laws make it illegal for staff not 2 observe. There is a short list of places that R legally allowed 2 refuse use of service dogs. One is military bases. U deserve 2 hav an ADA lawyer follow this up 4 u if u think it’s worth the time & energy.
Otherwise, chalk it up as a lemon & make lemonade & move fw in ur life w the addition knowledge you’ve gained. Sincere best wishes.
That
Is there a website or a book that can help you train your own dog to be a service dog
Just curious, did the 2 dogs perform 2 different functions? If not I don’t understand what you would need 2 “ service” dogs wouldn’t 1 that is properly trained be adequate?
Does it cost to get my dog certified
It is important the the dog has excellent public manners, is potty trained and under control with a calm temperament as well as in good health. The next aspect is to have the dog task trained to perform a task that mitigates your disability. An example of a task to perform for hearing loss, you could train or have the dog trained to let you know (though some kind of signal…like a nose butt to your thigh, etc.) that someone is at the door or the phone is ringing. There are many more tasks that can be taught. After you have done those things you can have the dog tested with legalk9.com. They also back you up with the necessary qualifying information to any court if needed.
How do I get my dog certified
You may follow this service dog certification guide to get your service dog certified https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-certification-guide/
Is there an age limit for the dog? My dog is 6 yrs old now. She already seems to know when I need her for my conditions and she responds to them/me. I want to train her but can’t afford to pay tons of money to do so.
There is a thing called owner training, it is where you train your dog yourself and so that way she learns her task and you dont have to pay all that money. Anyone who feels that they need to oay all that money to train there service dog has probably not done research so i feel that you didnt know. Anyways, just search up the task you want to train her with on youtuber and training by professionals videos show up.
I wish to register my companion dog, for entry, to everywhere I go
A companion or emotional support animal is not recognized by Americans with disabilities organization
I have my dog that I will be registering as as a service dog soon. I trained her myself. I watched YouTube videos on how to train a dog to pick up on diabetes. She alerts me quicker than my Dexcom does now. Some of the training techniques are a little weird but they worked for my dog.
No age too old as long as they can still perform every act necessary for your needs. Keep in mind that also means no accidental potty’s inside stores. And is healthy enough to perform all activities. I have a self trained service dog. It took us SIX MONTHS of daily training for him to finally be acceptable for a service dog. It’s also a good idea to get his canine citizen classes. These are relatively cheap and allows him to not make mistakes. They have to be desensitized to the public. Can’t beg for food. Can’t freak out and bark when another dog comes near them, etc etc. it sounds like a lot of work but it really isn’t. Good luck!
do the dogs have to be big i have a small dog
There is no size stated in the federal mandate as long as the dog is task trained to mitigate your disability.
How can i get my dog to be a service dog for my anxiety?
How can I buy a physically disabled person who is better get my dog more training to meet my needs?
Is it possible to adopt a service dog to meet my needs quickly. I am in a very urgent situation and require help.
I would like to certify my dog as a service dog for me.she is with me24/7 l would like to have her certify so she can go with i am73.
What is the cost to certified a dog and how long does it take.
Do service dogs fly for free ?
Having a card of letter that certifies you need a service dog does not grant you the legal right to take your dog into a restaurant or on a plane.
Your inability to enter a restaurant
or fly in a plane without assistance that a dog can provide may qualify you.
Your doctor or other medical treatment provider can assist you in determining if having a service dog will be a help to you.
All the certification is the things you buy on eBay like a vest like a tag like a symbol the certification is actually for alert dogs and seeing eye dogs which obviously the blind person is walking around with a dog it’s probably pretty well trained so the certification is sort of a myth. If you buy a alert dog you’re spending 20000 plus dollars and the last thing you worry about is whether or not it comes with a certificate. Can the dog do the job that is the question. That is why even in federal buildings they will ask what service your dog provides. If it is an emotional support dog can be denied access to a lot of different places. There are several catch all things that you can say my dog carries my information because if IA rapid heart rate high enough my heart will just explode and I’ll be dead therefore it can have the information to alert my next of kin as well as someone to take care of my dog After I’m Gone.
Interesting
I have a 200 pound service dog that I trained, I am physically disabled after head on car crash caused by drunk driver. I work with my dog daily on his commands, he assists me to walk, he helps me get up when I fall, and because of his size he gives me security to go places like grocery shopping without my husband having to go. We do get looks because of his size, but this boy does not react to anything, he does not sniff any items in stores. He is cleaner and better behaved than a lot of people. These dogs if well trained provides us with some degree of independence which means a lot.
Where do I go in gainesville to get a dog certified
Please see the ADA (Americans with disabilities act) for more information
I would like to register my shepherd as a service dog
A service dog does not need to be registered in order to qualify as a service dog. A service dog must be trained to perform tasks related to a disability. Thus, if your Shepherd is trained to perform a task that assists you in times of need then he is by definition a service dog. You can register your service dog to receive an ID that can help with confrontations. You may find this article on service dog registration requirements interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/registration-requirements-service-dog-certification/
I think it’s great for me, I need support and my dog does that for me.
I have a fear towards dogs and i feel like I shouldn’t have to be put in uncomfortable situations just to appease the people who want to disrupt public places like restaurants and grocery stores, malls etc. by bringing along your furry pets. Whatever happened to human rights? Keep your animals at home please. There’s a time and a place for them. Food establishments should not be one. Not everyone is an animal lover.
I didn’t ask you to “Love my PET”, I ask you to allow me and my “MEDICALLY NEEDED” assistance who happens to be a dog go about our lives as best we can. I prefer you NOT reach out to him, he is WORKING, he may be cute to you but that isn’t his fault! If you wish you may ASK to pet him. I MAY release him from work mode and allow you to pet him, but I may not. Believe me, I would rather be able to go everywhere without my service animal. There’s a lot of extra effort required to bring him with me. I also have to ensure his needs are also met in addition to mine. This can be disruptive to any intended activities, I have to graciously accept that. I am not sitting at your table, my animal is under control. If you don’t like animals that’s fine, If you would please stay at your table and leave us alone, will do you the same favor.
Tina It is sad to hear a non-dog (or animal ) person show such disdain towards a creature that is only here to serve. Socialized pets are better behaved than people (especially children) and your “issue” is with service dogs ?? Certainly by now you have experienced that dogs in public spaces are not attaching you. Perhaps if you become a caring pet owner, you will overcome your fear of furry pets. Good Luck with your fears of furry pets.
I pray you never become disabled, I was an officer and on my way to work was hit head on by drunk driver.
My dog is not interested in you are anyone else when we are out. And in a lot of cases he is cleaner and better behaved than a lot of people.
Oh Tina, there’s more people in this world, you know? People who needs assistance of a trained animal. Just keep your distance and problem solved. We ALL have rights, right? But we all have different needs.
Keep your Karens at home, Karen. There’s never a time or place for Karens. No one is a Karen lover.
hey do huys ahve a husky
I also wanted to mention I am originally from Miami Beach Fl moved after 43 years to Northumberland,PA to be with my son n husband have always has support dogs all my life since childhood. Now I’m literally on my own. No one to help me. I need all the help I can get from you all and my little doggie. With my condition can you please show me the way. How long is this process and how much remember I’m on disability a fixed income. But I still need to take care of this immediately. Thank you so look forward to hearing from you soon
I have severe panic attacks and have servere depression which i am medically treated for with medication and consulting my dog is registered as an emotional support animal but will love to get her bettet trained so she can be classified as service dog
Same I just don’t know where to go to get her were she will be a true and real service dog on paper like she is if you find answers please comment
Tina,
Not everyone loves being around people either especially people like yourself. People have service dogs for a reason, their right does not stop because you are scared of a dog. You missed the entire point of this article and comments, service dogs are not pets.
Well stated, Tamra.
who can certify my dog to be a service dog?
Also agree that if Tina is scared of a working service dog, maybe she should stay home instead. The animal is not harming but but helping people to have a better life.
Is this legit
My name is Melissa.
My service dog, Lily, is a Lab mix. I got her from the pound 4 years ago. In the beginning she wasn’t being used as a service dog. She was just a family pet. When she was about 3 she saved my life. I was having a seizure drowning in the bathtub. She pitched a fit until someone came to see what the problem was. Later in that year I had another seizure and was bleeding from my head laying on my back deck. She pitched a fit again. My neurologist said to encourage this behavior. After a year of training she is a now fully trained service dog. Because some people are just wanting to bring their family dog with them and saying that they are a service dog. That is causing so much trouble for others. People need to stop being selfish. This hurts other people who need the help. I’m told that she doesn’t have to be trained by professional. Is this correct? Do I need any information from my doctor? If so what do I need. I had her registered on the USA SERVICE DOG RESISTRATION. Is this everything that I need to do. I trying to get all my bases covered because people are just being so mean.
Thanks
Hi i have an adopted well profefesionally trained loow energy dog. I desperatly need cert as ptsd and trauma had been upped great recently
My fiance dog warns us when I’m going to have a seizure. Plus she will bring me out of my seizures when I have one when I’m home alone. Would she be a good candidate for a service dog?
We recommend speaking to your licensed healthcare professional to determine whether you have a qualifying disability that requires the use of a trained service dog.
My OPINION is that a service dog should be professional trained.
I have a shitzu dog an she remind me of thing that i for get. That save my life .can she get certified.she is two yrs old.
Your dog is awesome, sounds like she’s a natural-born service dog. If she went through all the necessary training, then indeed she can get registered as a service dog. You may find this article on the basics of service dog training interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-training-guide-the-basics/
What you failed to tell people repeatedly in your comments and over and over all of you asking how you get your dog registered …read the Ada laws! There is no legitimate registration or certification for a service dog! That is a huge part of the problem for the misinformed public who continue to violate our rights under the Ada.
We state in this article and throughout our website that you do not need to register a service dog – it is a completely optional step. You also do not need a certificate or ID card for a service dog.
Depends on the tasks that are needed.
For a person living with anxiety or depression, bipolar 2 and epilepsy even the most trivial tasks can feel exhausting. To deal with their mental illness, i take a lot of medication and I’m scheduled for consistent therapy sessions. But it’s not widely known that anyone with diagnosed anxiety or depression also qualifies for a psychiatric service dog. It’s a must for me What is a psychiatric service dog? […] And how can I go about getting one. I’ve been dealing with this with my 2 dogs there the best! I don’t know what I’d do without them. I have one girl and one boy how can I go about have the registered.
Pretend they are people that are not wearing masks in public and you want to avoid them like the plague. just steer clear and look at something else you might be missing.
I have disabilities and am scared to be around people unless I have my emotional support dog with me. I have human rights and these so called people have rights to.
I have a dog I want to be certified for me. I am training her to be my service dog.
I have a 41/2lb chiwawa as an emotional support dog and for depression and bipolar. I’m of Social Security Disability for: Axienty Insomina, Depression BiPolar. And as well being treated today’s for these issues by medications to this day. Also medications for COOD, restless leg syndrome and Gerd. I believe all these impairments follow under the guidelines for a service dog. Please inform me where I go from here the dog has been taken for shit seen by a vet has its rabbies tag and is certified and named. There is a file for him at Lieghow Vetinarian Clinc.
I just lost my husband 3 mists ago this little baby doggie gives me comfort and a sense of not being alone. He is very loving and protective. He stays by my side all the time. I need that feeling of feeling needed my son is wonderful but all grown up with a son of his own. Now I must move after 10 years all by myself. They will only take my little baby doggies if he is a service dog if not we’ll I can’t take him anywhere but we’ll I don’t want to say. All I can say is I need him more now then ever. Can you please help me get this little 41/2 lb. emtional support dog for all my traumas become my service dog. Please
Hey, can I know how you are getting your dog certified as a service dog? I want to get my too but don’t know where or who to contact. Best wishes, Caroline
I have a 3 year old German Shepard I would like to have her trained for depression, anxiety. Thanks
Depression and anxiety may qualify for a psychiatric service dog. However, a service dog must be trained to perform tasks relating to a disability. If your Shepherd merely provides comfort for depression and anxiety just through its presence, an emotional support animal may be more appropriate for you. You may find this article on the difference between service dogs and emotional support dogs interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/is-an-emotional-support-animal-same-as-a-service-dog/
What are the specific types of training that you could teach your dog for depression and anxiety?
The training depends on what helps you to overcome your anxiety. If you’re unsure, you can talk to your therapist and find what type of assistance your service dog could offer you. You may find this article on everything you need to know about service dogs for anxiety interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/train-a-service-dog-for-anxiety/
My name is Darlene, for for 3o years I was diagnosed with depression, 2015 I was informed I was misdiagnosed, I have major depression and PTSD and anxiety. I don’t like being out in public, I neglect my health and grooming, (except when I’m at work, I’m a pediatric homecare nurse (I’m opened about myself to the parents and I’ve been with my agency for 12 years), my primary Nurse Practitioner agrees that I should have a support dog, but which one? I don’t need Anya (my husky) for work, work is only place I feel normal (I actually thought I had slit personality but found out that’s normal to feel different at work) can you please help me, I don’t want to “abuse” the system but want to make sure my needs are met.
Thank you Darlene Coldwell
Hi Darlene,
If you feel an animal (a dog, cat, rabbit, or any other pet) can give you enough emotional support at home, you can apply for an Emotional Support Animal. There’s no training involved as the pet simply helps you overcome your dark times with their presence and love. But an ESA only has limited access rights, meaning they are not allowed out in public where other pets are not allowed.
If you need 24/7 support, you may need a Service Animal (only dogs). Your SA needs to be fully trained, under control at all times, focused, and most of all, needs to fulfill a particular task that you cannot do yourself in times of need (like give you a deep-pressure massage or fetch medicine). The Service Dog can go anywhere you go but also needs to stay in your presence at all times.
You may discuss more with your primary what assistance animal would fulfill your needs best. And you may find this article on the difference between an Emotional Support Animal and a Psychiatric Service Dog interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/the-difference-between-a-psychiatric-service-dog-and-an-emotional-support-animal/
Good luck to you and take care.
I am traveling to Hawaii in October for my granddaughters wedding and unfortunalty I am not comfortable going without my little helper. With the new laws and Corona Virus, I am very concerned they will attempt to quarantine my dog when I arrive. I have diabetes and PTSD stemming from severe trauma suffered in the military. Although my dog isnt trained by a “professional”, she has a Service Animal Certification and she does alert me when my blood sugar is low and also provide an enormous amount of comfort to me. She is small and current on all immunizations, potty trained and extremely well behaved. What Precautions, Forms, Measures can I take to assure 100% that she will he able to travel to and from my trip. Thank you in advance for Any help and information you can offer me. God Bless You.
Thank you for your service! A service dog does not need professional training to qualify as SD. If your dog is at your service at all times and trained to do the tasks that you need, then you have a legitimate service dog. Please contact the airline you’re planning to fly with for their policies on service dogs. There has been a change in rules recently; thus, it’s best to directly connect with them. You may find this article on how to fly with a service dog interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/flying-with-a-service-dog-guide/
Hi Annette!,
I live in Maui and we moved from the mainland at the beginning of 2020 with our Mini Australian Sheppard! While he is an emotional support dog, that has nothing to do with the pet Quarantine in Hawaii. Hawaii is the only state that does not have rabies therefore they are very strict with allowing entry for animals. If your trip is in October you’ll have plenty of time to do fulfill all the requirements (it’s a lot of paperwork & vaccination records, microchip, etc.) and it took us about 5 months to get everything in order so I highly suggest you don’t wait. There’s a whole process and waiting period so I cannot stress enough that you get a head start in everything!
Here’s a link of requirements but I also suggest you contact a vet on the island you’re visiting to confirm everything is correct! It’s kind of a pain and the state will not make any exceptions so double check everything!
https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/aqs-info/
Hawaii is one place where you will find impossible as they are a rabies free island. The quarantine is 6mths. Not even my son “X-military” can get around this. Good luck tho
Hello,
I have been training my Dog to be a Service dog for over one year now and we are finally ready to certify her as a psychiatric service dog.
The problem is I am an American citizen living in France and my dog has a French passport and microchip and a health certificate from a french veterinarian. Can i still certify her as a service dog in USA to fly with me on planes through the united states?
France does not allow Service dogs that have not been bought in special Service dog breeder. My dog is a street rescue dog since a puppy.
Thank you for your answers!
Please see this guide for details on flying with a psychiatric service dog: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/flying-with-a-service-dog-guide/
My K9 is a Pit Bull that I’m training for my service K9….I don’t call her Dog .Her name is Sandy with my last nameCertafied Documented and is very smart.Im Disabled PTSD and injuries I reserved …Sandy will be 3yrs old Christmas 2021..Had her sence she was Born.We train 24/7 . She is my Best Friend goes where I go 97% of the time.At night she will hear something at door and go to full alert , straddling me with her nose towards the door.Thats why I sleep at night,I no she has my back….She still has a lot of Pis &,Vinigeron in her that’s good cause she is eager to learn.She ready for Full Certification.Tom
I have a pit about 2 or 3 years old she does great with me I suffer with schizophrenia and depression as well as by power im on shot once a month and take meds I want her be my service dog she helps me there alot she doesn’t do no tricks like fetch stuff but she there for me she gets me out bed she makes me go on walks she helps me deal with people how can I get her certificated.?
A couple of things: a service dog does not need to be certificated in order to qualify as a service dog. In addition, unless the dog is trained to perform a task or job relating to a qualifying disability, it is not a service dog. If your service dog performs a specific task related to your disability, it may be a service dog. However, something like going on walks or providing general comfort may not qualify. Please see this article for more info about psychiatric service dogs: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/psychiatric-service-dog/
I am a 100% disabled veteran with PTSD and diabetes. I have a 1 year old GSD whom I have trained in the basics and who is very calm in public even when someone is very aggressive. Would she be considered an Emotional Support Animal or a Service Dog and how can I get her trained to recognize when my blood sugar drops.
An untrained animal that provides support for mental health issues may be considered an emotional support animal. A dog that has been trained to perform a task that assists with a disability may qualify as a service dog. Service dogs can be trained by the owner or with the help of a professional trainer or organization.
Unfortunately there is no legal certification registration existing in the United States of America. It will eventually be up to each state to issue proper legal documentation and certification registration for each service dog that’s trained through the organization that trained it.
My Dr has written me a note stating my emotional/ service / support dog has to be with always I suffer from depression,severe aniexty, PTSD , thyroid condition, arthritis my dog helps me alerts me with alarms ,upset , aniexty now all of a sudden after 7 years they were told they can’t write letters anymore? I’m confused and upset why now is my old letters still gd ? Who do I get to write one or get her legally certified?
To clarify, you do not need a doctor’s letter or any other documentation to legally certify a service dog. The relevant criteria is whether you have a fully trained service dog that performs a task or job relating to your disability.
I have a service dog for my PTSD grayhound said people with PTSD do not have service dogs they have emotion support. My is registered at service dog I also have mental issues. What do I do I showed he is a registered service dog I moving this is stressing me out
You may find this article on psychiatric service dogs helpful: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/psychiatric-service-dog/
I have a question. I am blind and have gotten a dog that I would like to train as I don’t have the means/finances, and have children to care for so can’t go to any of the guide dog schools Can I train my dog myself and have her certified? also, while I am training my dog, can the landlord not allow my dog to live with me? I know that landlords can not deny access to a guiding dog, but not sure how that might work if the dog is being trained. thanks.
You are allowed to train a service dog on your own. However, you will not have the rights of a service dog owner while your dog is in training – it must be fully trained to be considered a service dog.
How can I get my Chinese crested service dog registered
If you have a ticket for first class or business, your service dog can accompany you in those sections. Service dogs cannot be on the seat, they must travel in your foot space. Please see this guide for more info: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/flying-with-a-service-dog-guide/
I have a German Shepherd that we’re in the process of training him to become my service dog to help me with attacks of anxiety, in the near future we are gonna be staying at RV camps in California that doesn’t allow German Shepherd dogs if my dog is officially trained and certified as a service dog can they deny my stay at those campgrounds?
Once the dog is fully trained to perform a task or job relating to a disability, the handler has rights under the ADA. You also do not need to certify service dogs – that is an optional step.
I’m in the process of training a1 year Aussie to be my wife’s service dog. I’ll have some time to train him to pick up her phone when she drops it stop whenever there a step up or down in her way.
Dallas needs to be not only a service but also a guide dog because my wife has AMD (Age Macular degeneration) In time she will lose central vision yes in both . We have a friend who is a service dog trainer who will be helping us 🥰
I’m deaf and epileptic. Dog barks when someone is at the door. Whenever she takes off, I follow her. What she’s good at, is staying close to me. She has saved my life twice when I had seizures. First time, she ran to my friend for help and lead her to me. Second time, she stayed closed to me and lick my face after I calm down.
She’s not certified 🙁 she helps me by being calm.
Service dogs do NOT need to be certified. Certification and registration are completely optional steps for service dog owners.
Do I have to have some kind of paperwork for my disability?
You do not need a particular type of paperwork for a service dog. Some owners of psychiatric service dogs however obtain PSD letters. If you own an emotional support animal, you would need an ESA letter from a licensed healthcare professional. Please see these links for more info:
https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/psd-letter/
https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/how-to-get-an-emotional-support-dog-letter/
Do you have to show proof of your disability to certify your dog?
You do not need to show any type of documentation, but third parties are allowed to ask: 1. Is the service dog required for a disability? and 2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
I have. 140lb fox red English lab that has alerted me to an oncoming seizure twice, he will run to my neighbors hous to get help. How do I get him certified?
You do not need to certify a service dog. To qualify for a service dog under the ADA, your dog must be trained to perform a job or task relating to a qualifying disability.
So I already have a letter concerning my disability – is there anything else I need to do, as my apartment manager wants a service dog certificate -so he doesn’t have to change me a deposit and monthly rent for the dog?
You do not need any type of certificate for a service dog. You also do not need a letter. We offer service dog certificates however for service dog owners that want additional optional documentation: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-id/
So informative!!! Thank you so much!!!
Thank you so much for the compliment!
Please tell how to certify my dog in KY.
You do not need to certify a service dog in any state. Certification is a completely optional step for already qualified service dog owners. To qualify for a service dog you need a qualifying disability and a service dog that has been trained to perform a job or task relating to that disability.
How can I register my dog as a service dog, I’m a diabetic, lost my hearing in my ear due to cancer and my eye my left side is not good either.
Thank you
Mrs Pottichen
Registering a service dog is an optional step for service dog handlers. The important criteria is to ensure you have a qualifying disability and a fully trained dog that directly assists with that disability.
I don’t have a service dog at this moment but hoping in regards to registering one through the program if possible if I may.
Please see this link for info about service dog registrations: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/how-to-register-service-dog/
I need a service dog license since we have a dog and we need to prove for the apt. How I get her service dog license?
You do not need a service dog license to be accommodated for housing. If you own a service dog, your landlord can verify it by asking two questions: 1. Is the dog a service dog required for a disability? and 2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
Hi I have a doctor’s note that supports my use of service dog. With the ada ID number.
He has been trained but not certified. He has worked on patrols with owner in mayors office security. She wants proof of training and tags or she’s threatening to evict us from home. We own a mobile home in CA but rent the space. I don’t know what to do
You do not need to show an ID, proof of training, or tags to prove that you own a service dog. You can be asked two questions to verify your service dog: 1. Is the dog a service dog required for a disability? and 2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
How much does it cost to register my dog he’s always around my husband and alerts people
Please see this link for more info on registering service dogs: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-id/
Is there places to help pay for your dog to get trained as a service dog? People on disability can’t afford what the trainers are asking and I would love for my dog to be trained to help me if I fall and can’t reach a phone or my walker.
If a person has not had their dog trained to perform a task that helps them is that dog still considered a service animal
Under ADA rules only a fully trained dog is considered a service dog.
How is it determined that a dog is fully trained?
A service dog is considered by many trainers to be fully trained when it can dependably perform its disability-related job or task on command or when needed in different types of public environments.
What are the laws for ESzA animals how many animals can you have in Iowa on an ESA I have depression and stage 4 lung cancer
You might find this article helpful: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/emotional-support-animal-laws/ There is no technical limit to how many ESAs you can have, but each one has to be recommended by your healthcare provider.
My husband’s service dog was for PTSD, but he died. He has another one of the same breed. Does he have to start over or how will this be handled?
We’re very sorry to hear about your husband’s service dog passing away. We’re not quite sure what you mean by “start over”, but the new service dog would need to be fully trained to assist with your husband’s disability before it could qualify as a service dog. Certifying a service dog is not a necessity, it is a completely optional step.
I am 61 and have Disability of falling and passing out. I tend to have seizures. I can’t get up on my own and have laid for a long time. I own a German Shepard who is stays with me but is not sure how to help me My question is can I train her to help me?
We recommend speaking to a professional trainer to see if your dog can reliably assist with your disability. The trainer will also be able to evaluate your dog to see if it is up to the task.
My service ESA therapy dog died a year ago. I was ruined for months. When a friend past away in May leaving her service dog orphaned we inherited her. She bonded readily with us since our dogs were friends. In her records I have a letter from previous owners psycharitist advocating for dog. Since my dead friend and I both needed our dogs for the same pshchiatric issues Mallow is a perfect fit for us. Sometimes we get flack in public places from uninformed staff. Other times not. How to deal with this?
First, you should realize that while many PSD owners do have PSD letters, they are absolutely not mandatory. No one should give you a hard time for needing a service dog. If staff members at an establishment have any doubt, they can only ask the two questions allowed under ADA rules. They are not allowed to request any form of documentation from you. Please see this guide about psychiatric service dogs for more information: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/psychiatric-service-dog/
What kind of penalties are there for people saying their dog is a service dog and it isn’t?
There are many states that have enacted laws that prohibit people from fraudulently representing their dog as a service dog. The penalties can include hefty fines. Falsely stating that your dog is not only highly unethical, it is also treated as a crime in many jurisdictions.
Are there programs that assist in paying for the training of a service dog? I have a 4 Month old GSD that I want to train to help with my psych issues but no way I can afford it.
One alternative if you can’t afford comprehensive training services is to do all or part of the training on your own, with the assistance of an expert. The ADA allows handlers to self-train their dogs, which is especially important for handlers who are not able to pay for full training services.
Does my service animal have to be a dog? I have epilepsy, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, osteopenia, and degenerative disc disease. I have 2 cats (both brothers from the same litter) who bring me much comfort and help to know when things aren’t going to go too good. Can they be trained as my service pets?
Unfortunately at this time cats cannot be legal service animals under the ADA. The ADA defines service animals as specifically being dogs (and in some instances, miniature horses). Cats can however serve as emotional support animals if you have a valid ESA letter: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/emotional-support-cat/
I have a Chihuahua can she be a service dog
Any type of dog can be a service dog, as long as they are qualified to perform the job or task the owner needs to help with their disability. Some considerations with a Chihuahua would be that they would not be ideal for tasks that require the strength or presence of a larger dog. They could however perform many of the tasks needed of a psychiatric service dog: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/psychiatric-service-dog/
I have a border collie I need to go about him being a service dog
We recommend reading this article if you’re just starting to learn about the service dog qualification process: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-requirements/
If my dog has certification papers for emotional support dog and his vest and I have a letter from my primary physician stating my diagnosis is that all I need to take my dog anywhere and fly with me he doesn’t fit under the sit and I need to have him near me at all times can you please let me know if I need to do anything else thank you
Carol
Unfortunately, emotional support animals do not have the right to board planes under the ACAA any longer. Only service dogs have air travel rights now: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/flying-with-a-service-dog-guide/
In addition, you do not need certification papers or a vest for emotional support animal, although you can certainly obtain them voluntarily. An ESA letter from a therapist or doctor is the only documentation you need.
Emotional support dogs are not recognized by ADA
I have two dogs who tell me before I have an allergy attack or asthma attack. Both have been trained to wake me up ( in middle of night) to let me know before the attack ( asthma) and the other one runs to go get my husband if I am not near him. If I am near my husband then he will wake him up to notify him of the issue. would they both be considered service dogs?
That would likely depend on whether your health condition qualifies as a disability. We recommend reading this article to see how the ADA determines whether you have a disability: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/disabilities-qualify-service-dog/
My daughter has a traumatic brain injury to the frontal lobe. She has a small dog that she keeps with her at all times for emotional support. The dog is never out of control and never makes a sound unless my daughter gets under high stress or emotional. My daughter is disabled from a car wreck. This dog is worth a million dollars to me. She has helped her so much
Would the dog be gualified as a service animal
My daughter has had 42 surgeries to date and 5 skull replacement
We’re so happy to hear that your daughter’s dog helps her so much. To qualify as a service dog, the dog would need to be trained to perform a task directly relating to her disability. Otherwise, it would more likely be considered an emotional support animal.
I would like more information about your services and cost?
We’d be happy to help you! We offer accessories like ID cards, tags and vests for service dog owners. We can also help you with ESA letters if you are interested in qualifying for an emotional support animal, or PSD letters if you want to know whether you have an ADA eligible psychiatric disability. For pricing, just click the tab of the product or service you are interested in at the top of our page. If you still have questions, just let us know and we’d be happy to assist.