Assistance dog

[Min133]

Hello,

We are thinking of contacting a local charity who train and place assistance dogs to apply for one.

Does anyone have any tips for things I should consider before applying? I've never owned a dog (but had one when I was growing up) so I'm a bit unsure about what I need to consider before making a decision.

Thanks!

I appreciate that there are other health issues that a dog can help with but the only official assistance dogs in The UK are for people who are hearing and sight impaired and there are "charities" who charge a lot for providing assistance dogs for MH or Autism for example when these dogs are basically just well trained pets. There are many cases of these schemes being scams and even if they aren't they aren't always well run.
So I would advise caution for a start
Also getting a dog is a major change for anyone, its not just adding to your family its a whole lifestyle change so make sure you are ready to put a dogs needs before your own in many cases. Consider hair, wee, poo, smell, mud, chewing, getting up early, not being able to go out for long, having to plan everything more carefully and also the ongoing costs of having a dog.
I always had dogs growing up but I really underestimated how hard it was until I got one as an adult. I love my dog and wouldn't be without him but he can be hard work and he does limit what we can do.

Can we ask what type of assistant dog you are looking for.

As Hoppinggreen alreadypointed out, it's a minefield!
You should also be aware that assistance dogs are high in demand and not enough dogs that make the grade. So if it is to good to be true, it probably is.

Having said that, make sure you go into this with your eyes wide open, especially if you want to go down the puppy/ adolescent dog route!

Besides the charity, it's worth contacting the local dog club. I know ours has people who have experience in training professional working dogs.... their knowledge and contacts could be a god send.