Explore nonprofits that may be able to connect you with a four-legged companion.
A service dog can make life with a disability much more manageable. But between finding the right dog and training it, the costs can quickly add up. Fortunately, there are quite a few grants and financing options that may be able to help.
How much does a service dog cost?
Buying and training a dog to suit your needs typically costs between $15,000 and $30,000, according to the nonprofit Service Dog Certifications. The exact amount depends on the training it receives and the breed of dog you’ve selected. Because of this, a service dog can be as expensive as $50,000.
When looking into buying a service dog, you should also consider the normal cost of owning an animal. Owners often spend between $500 and $10,000 on their service dog per year. These prices shouldn’t deter you from pursuing a service dog — since there are programs that can help — but you should be aware of the potential expense before investing in your companion.
Why do service dogs cost so much?
Service dogs require extensive training and care during the first few months of their lives. The final price is generally a combination of:
- Adoption fees
- Trainer’s fees
- Spaying or neutering
- Vaccinations
- Regular checkups
To cut down on the immediate expense, you can train the dog yourself or with the help of a certified trainer. This can significantly reduce the cost in the short term, but it may take longer to fully equip your dog with the skills it needs to help you.
5 ways to pay for a service dog
When you’re ready to buy a service dog, here are five financing options to consider:
- Nonprofit grants. There are several organizations, including Assistance Dogs International and Service Dogs for America, that help people with disabilities find service dogs for little or no cost.
- Flexible spending account. You can use a flexible spending account (FSA) attached to your insurance policy to buy a service dog if you get a letter of medical necessity (LMN) from your doctor. An FSA allows you to use your salary before taxes, making it less expensive than paying out of pocket.
- Crowdfunding. Reach out to your social networks to raise money for your service dog by creating a fundraising campaign on sites like Kickstarter or GoFundMe.
- Build up your savings. Though not the always easiest method — especially if you have a limited cash flow — having extra savings can make purchasing and caring for a service dog easier.
- Take out a personal loan. Once you’ve exhausted your other options, you may want to consider a personal loan up to $50,000.
Wait lists for grants
Some organizations claim to never turn someone in need away, but this doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to get a dog immediately. Most nonprofits say their wait lists are long, so you may have to wait several years for a service dog for your disability. In addition, each organization has its own program and eligibility criteria. Double-check that you qualify before filling out the applications — and try to get them in as soon as possible to secure a spot on the list.
Which programs offer service dogs?
Many of these programs offer service dogs at no charge to the recipient. But to be eligible, you may need to meet specific criteria or live close to the organization for continued training and support.
| Organization | Disabilities serviced | Mission | Location | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brigadoon Service Dogs |
|
Provides service dogs to veterans, adults and children with physical, developmental and behavioral disabilities | Bellingham, Washington | |
| The Service Dog Project (SDP) |
|
Works exclusively with Great Danes to help those with mobility and balance issues | Ipswich, Massachusetts | |
| Paws with a Cause |
|
Provides custom-trained assistance dogs and works to increase the visibility of service dogs within the community | Wayland, Michigan | |
| Canine Companions for Independence |
|
Trains dogs to help people living with disabilities as well as facilitators working in a healthcare, visitation or educational setting | Training centers located throughout the US | |
| NEADS |
|
Provides dogs that offer assistance and companionship to adults and children with physical and developmental disabilities | Princeton, Massachusetts | |
| Guide Dogs of America |
|
Offers guide dogs to those who are blind or visually impaired to help increase independence and mobility | Sylmar, California | |
| Can Do Canines |
|
Provides service dogs to help improve the quality of life for individuals living with disabilities | New Hope, Minnesota | |
| Retrieving Freedom, Inc. |
|
Trains dogs to work with veterans living with PTSD and other service-related injuries, as well as children with autism | Facilities located in Iowa, Missouri and Mississippi |
How do I know if a program is accredited?
Assistance Dogs International (ADI) sets the industry standards for organizations and individuals who train dogs to help people with disabilities. It offers accreditation for certain programs — so ask the organization or individual you’re working with if it’s accredited when doing your research. Its standards cover the proper selection, training and care of service dogs as well as standards for administration and the selection of staff and volunteers.
Does health insurance cover service dogs?
Not usually. Major insurance providers typically don’t cover the price of a service dog or its training, but some smaller providers may offer partial coverage. Still, this means getting a service animal is usually a pricey out-of-pocket expense — which is why finding a nonprofit can go a long way in helping you stay out of debt.
Will Medicaid or Medicare pay for a service dog?
Unfortunately, neither Medicaid nor Medicare cover the costs of obtaining or caring for a service dog. However, you can use your SSI or SSDI income to pay for your animal. And if you’ve recently received disability payments, you may also be able to use your back benefits to purchase a service dog or pay for its training. You can learn more about your options by reaching out to a disability attorney or advocate.
Will the VA pay for a service dog?
Not fully, but some of the costs that come with owning a service dog may be covered by your Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. To take advantage of this opportunity, schedule a meeting with a mental health provider to begin the application process. If approved, the VA provides comprehensive coverage for your dog’s health and wellness as well as any prescription medication or veterinary care your dog may require.
How can I pay for pet care if my service dog gets sick or injured?
Beyond the normal costs of maintaining a dog, there are times when your companion will need additional medical care. While your personal insurance might not cover it, there are a few ways you can get assistance.
- Health savings accounts. Because your assistance dog is performing a medically-required service, its medical bills can be covered by your health savings account (HSA). If you spend over 7.5% of your income before taxes on medical expenses for your service animal, you can file to have that money deducted on your taxes. But you’ll also need an LMN from your doctor.
- Pet insurance. There are pet insurance policies available for your dog in case of illness or injury. Many plans cover service dogs, and there are multiple insurers with premiums that fit various budgets.
- Nonprofit funding. Some nonprofits can also help if you find yourself unable to pay for vet bills. Contact one of the options listed above to see if there are any programs you may qualify for.
- VA benefits. You can apply to have your service dog’s veterinary care and prescription medication subsidized by the VA. You can reach out to a mental health provider to learn more.
Which breeds are best for service dogs?
The best breed for your service dog depends on your needs. The three most common types of assistance dog are:
- Labrador retriever
- Golden retriever
- German shepherd
However, many types of dog are suitable for service work and certain breeds are better for certain jobs. When searching for the right dog breed, it’s important to contact trainers and disability advocates. These resources will be able to lead you to the appropriate dog for your needs.
When to go for a big dog
For people who need stability for a physical limitation, a Labrador retriever or German shepherd is considered helpful in providing support when you are struggling to maneuver in certain spaces.
When to go for a medium or small dog
Medium-sized breeds like poodles and collies are often used for people whose disabilities who don’t require the strength and size of these larger breeds. If you need a Hearing Dog or one that scents conditions like epilepsy or low blood sugar, a smaller dog might be more suitable. They can easily fit in public spaces where a large dog may seem inappropriate, like at a restaurant or on a bus.
Compare loans to finance a service dog
Bottom line
A service dog may be a necessity, but the cost can make them inaccessible. Assistance Dogs International has a respected certification program and list of trainers that can help make your dog more affordable. While it doesn’t provide service dogs to those in need, it can direct people with disabilities to a program that can. Other resources may also be appropriate when you need to handle such a large cost.
If you do choose to take out a personal loan, compare your options to make sure you’re getting a good deal that suits your budget.
Frequently asked questions
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