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At DogingtonPost, we understand the importance of finding loving homes for all dogs, including those who don’t complete their service training.
If you’re wondering where to adopt failed service dogs, you’re in the right place. These incredible animals possess unique qualities and skills that make them excellent companions.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of adopting a failed service dog and introduce you to organizations that can help you find your new furry friend.
Here’s the modified chapter:
What Are Failed Service Dogs?
Understanding Service Dog Training
Service dogs undergo intensive training programs to assist individuals with disabilities. These programs typically last 18 to 24 months and focus on teaching specific skills tailored to a future handler’s needs. The dogs learn to perform tasks that help their handlers navigate daily life with greater independence.
Reasons for Training Failure
Not all dogs complete their service training successfully. An estimated 70% of service dogs in training don’t graduate due to behavioral issues. Common reasons for failure include:
- High distractibility
- Inability to remain calm in public
- Physical health issues (e.g., hip dysplasia)
- Excessive energy levels
- Lack of confidence in new environments
Unique Qualities of Failed Service Dogs
Despite not completing their training, these dogs often possess exceptional qualities. They typically have:
- Good socialization skills
- Basic obedience training
- Comfort in various environments
Many organizations, such as Freedom Service Dogs of America, note that their career change dogs make wonderful pets due to their gentle nature and prior training.
Adopting a Failed Service Dog
When you adopt a failed service dog, you should understand that these dogs may require continued training and patience. They’re often intelligent and eager to please but may need help transitioning to a pet lifestyle.
Organizations like Guide Dogs for the Blind offer career change dogs for adoption. These dogs are generally between 1 and 2 years old and have received extensive socialization and basic training. This can be a significant advantage for adopters looking for a well-mannered companion.
Transition to Pet Life
Failed service dogs often thrive in family environments, bringing joy and companionship to their new owners while benefiting from the stability of a forever home. However, it’s important to remember that these dogs may need time to adjust to their new role as a pet (rather than a working dog).
As we explore the topic further, let’s look at the organizations and programs that specialize in placing these exceptional dogs in loving homes.
Where Can You Find Failed Service Dogs for Adoption?
At DogingtonPost, we often receive questions about adopting failed service dogs. These exceptional animals make wonderful companions, and several organizations dedicate themselves to placing them in loving homes. Let’s explore some of the best options for finding your new furry friend.
National Organizations
Several national organizations specialize in placing failed service dogs. Guide Dogs for the Blind has a career change dog program. These dogs typically range from 1 to 2 years old and have received extensive socialization and basic training.
Freedom Service Dogs of America places career change dogs with families looking for well-trained companions. These dogs often have a solid foundation in obedience and socialization, which makes them excellent pets.
Service Dogs Inc., based in Texas, offers a career change dog adoption program. They rescue dogs from shelters and train them, placing those unsuitable for service work in loving homes.
Local Options
While national organizations provide great resources, don’t overlook local options. Many local shelters and rescue groups work with service dog organizations to place failed service dogs. These partnerships can provide opportunities to adopt these special dogs closer to home.
Check with your local animal shelters and ask if they have relationships with service dog training programs. Some shelters may receive career change dogs directly from these programs.
Veteran-Focused Programs
For veterans looking to adopt, specialized programs exist. Pets for Patriots helps veterans adopt companion animals (including some failed service dogs). These programs often provide additional support and resources for veteran adopters.
K9s For Warriors primarily trains service dogs for veterans, but they occasionally have career change dogs available for adoption.
Application Process
Regardless of which organization you choose, prepare for a thorough application process. These organizations want to ensure their dogs go to suitable homes. You may need to provide references, undergo a home check, and demonstrate your ability to care for a dog.
The waiting period can vary significantly. Some organizations have long waiting lists due to high demand for these well-trained dogs. Patience plays a key role in this process.
Adoption Fees
Adoption fees for failed service dogs can range from $0 to over $1,000. These fees often reflect the extensive training and care these dogs have received. While it might seem high, these organizations invest significantly in each dog’s training and care.
When you consider adopting a failed service dog, take time to research different organizations. Each has its own policies and procedures. Understanding the process and maintaining patience will set you on the path to providing a loving home for one of these special dogs. Now, let’s move on to the steps you’ll need to take once you’ve found an organization to adopt from.
How to Adopt a Failed Service Dog
Research Organizations
Start your adoption journey by researching reputable organizations that offer failed service dog adoptions. Many national dog organizations adopt out canines who fail to make it through training. You’ll often see these dogs referred to as career change dogs. Local shelters and rescue groups may also have partnerships with service dog training centers.
Contact multiple organizations to compare their adoption processes, waiting times, and fees. Adoption fees typically range from $35 to $150 per month, depending on the dog’s breed and the policy you choose. Be cautious of organizations charging significantly more without clear justification.
Complete the Application
After you choose an organization, prepare to fill out a detailed application. This usually includes questions about your lifestyle, living situation, and experience with dogs. Many organizations require:
- Proof of a fenced yard or suitable exercise area
- Veterinary references (if you’ve had pets before)
- Personal references
- Proof of income to ensure you can care for the dog
Some organizations conduct virtual interviews as part of the screening process. Be honest in your responses to ensure the best match for both you and the dog.
Prepare Your Home
While you wait for approval, prepare your home for your new companion. Failed service dogs are often larger breeds like Labrador Retrievers or Golden Retrievers. Ensure you have:
- A comfortable bed
- Appropriate-sized food and water bowls
- A crate for safe transport
- Toys for mental stimulation
Consider dog-proofing your home by securing trash cans and removing potentially harmful plants or chemicals.
Meet Potential Adoptees
Once approved, you’ll likely receive an invitation to meet potential adoptees. Organizations arrange meet-and-greets to ensure compatibility. During this interaction:
- Observe the dog’s behavior in different situations
- Ask about the dog’s specific training and any quirks
- Discuss the dog’s medical history and any ongoing needs
Some organizations offer a trial period (typically one week) to ensure the dog fits well with your family and lifestyle. Use this time to establish routines and observe how the dog adjusts to your home environment.
Finalize the Adoption
If the trial period is successful, you’ll move forward with finalizing the adoption. This often involves signing adoption papers, paying the adoption fee, and receiving any relevant medical records or training information. The organization may also provide post-adoption support to help with the transition.
Final Thoughts
Adopting a failed service dog offers a unique opportunity to welcome a well-socialized and partially trained canine into your home. These exceptional animals possess qualities that make them wonderful companions, despite not completing their service training. You can find organizations that specialize in placing these dogs through our guide on where to adopt failed service dogs.
The adoption process requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to ongoing care. However, the rewards of providing a loving home to one of these special animals are immeasurable. You’ll gain a loyal friend, a well-mannered companion, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve made a significant difference in a dog’s life.
We at DogingtonPost promote responsible dog ownership and support adoption initiatives. If you’re ready for a unique and fulfilling adoption experience, consider opening your heart and home to a failed service dog. Your new companion will bring joy, loyalty, and a special bond built on trust and mutual understanding.
