Facility Dogs
Go to work with and assist professionals such as physicians, teachers and counselors.
What is a Facility Dog?
Facility Dogs are specifically trained to assist professionals such as physicians, teachers, and counselors who work with people with disabilities. Each dog has been extensively trained tasks designed to motivate, inspire, and enhance the lives of the clients they serve. Facility Dogs do not have public access except when accompanying the professionals and their clients.
Facility Dog Capabilities
- Reduces anxiety, providing a calming effect on the professional’s clients and students
- Allows the professional to better serve or treat clients and students
- Serves as a reward for positive behavior
Apply For A Dog
Before you decide to apply for a Facility Dog, please read about our Facility Dog Program Requirements.
Our Process
Application
Click on the ‘Get Started’ button above to fill out and submit an application. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements will be notified via email of the next step. If you have any questions about the application, please email info@dogsforbetterlives.org or call 541-826-9220.
Screening
If eligibility requirements are met, then you will be requested to submit authorization from your employer. Please note, all applicants for Facility Dogs must work a minimum of 20 hours/week with students/clients with disabilities and have employer authorization. This information, along with the application, will be reviewed by our Screening Committee.
In-Home and Workplace Interview
In-home and workplace interviews provide us with additional information on the applicants’ needs and lifestyles. A Dogs for Better Lives associate conducts these interviews. All members of the household must be present for the in-home portion of the interview.
Acceptance or Denial
After the interview is completed and returned to us, the entire application packet will be carefully reviewed and a final decision made as to whether or not one of our professionally trained dogs is suitable for the applicant.
Waiting Period
The waiting period for a Facility Dog is currently 36 months from the time the person is accepted to receive the dog.
Placement
Facility Dogs are accompanied by a trainer to the home and workplace of the client. The trainer teaches the client how to keep the dog working consistently and how to maintain the dog’s obedience training.
Follow-Up
Following the placement, regular communication is required. The client reports regularly on the progress of the dog. When problems arise or the client has any questions, the trainer offers help and answers questions. In-home follow up is also done.
Dogs for Better Lives provides follow-up support for the life of the team.
