Apply for Our Program
At this time we are only accepting applications for diabetic alert dogs! Please check back this fall for additional openings! The wait time for a service dog is 2-3 years.
A fully trained service dog is estimated to cost $60,000-$75,000. We rely heavily on charitable donations from the public to help make our dogs accessible. At this time, we ask all accepted applicants to fundraise $25,000 dollars to help offset the cost of the selection, raising, training, and the two week in home transfer camp we provide. Fundraising options and ideas can be found on our ‘Fundraising’ page!
Centre Stage Service Dogs Inc. is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Application Process
Step 1: Submit your initial application through the form on our website!
This initial application is reviewed to determine if our program is a good match for you to continue on with. Please give us 1-2 weeks to review your application, you will receive notice of your application being approved or denied via email. If approved, you will then submit an in-depth application and be invited for a virtual or in person interview. If you are not the right fit for our program, we will do our best to point you in the right direction for your needs!
Step 2: In-depth Application and Interview
Once approved, you will be sent an in depth application to fill out so that we can better understand your lifestyle, needs, and the ideal type of dog to match you with. This phase of the application process also includes a virtual or in person interview with a member of our team. The application and interview will be reviewed by our board of directors to determine if our program and dogs are the right fit for you! Please expect to hear back on your application status within a month of your interview.
Step 3: Fundraising Communication up to Matching!
While you excitedly await your match, we encourage you to fundraise for or secure your donation fee and remain in communication with us. Once you have secured your donation fee, you are eligible for matching camp! Please remain in contact with us on any lifestyle changes, needs, or medical conditions to help us best match a dog with you.
Step 4: Matching!
The next step is to attend a matching camp! This typically occurs when a dog is between 12-15 months of age. During this time we will match you to a dog, get started on client education, and begin any customized training your dog may need before placement camp.
Step 5: Transfer Training and Graduation!
We have a 10-14 day placement camp in your home area when it is time for the transfer of your dog. During this time you learn how to live with your dog, basic care and grooming, handling skills, public access, and any specialized task work. You will also review graduation requirements and continuing support with your life of your dog. At the end of transfer training, we will celebrate the new team and look forward to your official graduation.
Step 6: Lifetime of support and follow up!
Each team is provided with a follow up schedule to stay in touch with our program. You are required to complete a yearly public access test, which then moves to every other year, to remain certified as one of our teams. Teams are also required to fill out medical alert logs and have a lifetime of support from our trainers should they need any assistance!