Does it cost anything to get an Assistance Dog?
Duo Dogs does not charge for an Assistance Dog. There is a $100 application fee, plus an equipment fee of approximately $400-$900, depending on equipment needed. This is due when the client receives the dog.
Where does Duo Dogs get the dogs used in the Assistance Dog program?
Duo Dogs has its own breeding program, as well as relationships with specific breeders who help supply the dogs. As these are working dogs, Duo Dogs requires the medical history and substantial medical clearances on each canine to ensure they are appropriate for the program and able to handle the tasks for which they are trained.
Does Duo Dogs take donated dogs to use as Assistance Dogs?
Duo Dogs does take donated dogs with proper health clearances, medical history, and the dog must pass a temperament evaluation to ensure it is appropriate for the program.
What are the age requirements to get an Assistance Dog?
To qualify for an Assistance Dog, applicants must be a minimum of fourteen years of age and the certification would be with the child, along with a parent. All hearing dog clients must be 18 years of age.
Does Duo Dogs provide seizure alert or diabetic dogs?
No. The dogs trained by Duo Dogs are to help those with physical challenges as well as those who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Duo Dogs does not place any type of medical alert or medical response dog.
My dog is already trained. Can Duo certify my dog as an assistance dog?
No. Duo Dogs will only certify dogs that have been trained through the organization.
What breeds of dogs are used?
We use Labrador retrievers and Golden retrievers because of their size, their instinct to retrieve, and their willingness to please people. These dogs enjoy the work that they do and that is key in the successful completion of training and placement of the Assistance Dog.
Does Duo Dogs place Assistance and Facility Dogs outside of the St. Louis area?
Yes. Duo Dogs serves clients nationwide. For those clients out of the area, they are responsible for all costs associated with travel, lodging, and meals during the Team Training and placement process.
At this time, the program is limited to placing PTSD Assistance Dogs with Veterans residing within 50 miles of the Duo Dogs facility in St. Louis, MO.
How long is the wait for an Assistance or Facility Dog?
There is no definite wait time. Duo Dogs recommends the sooner the potential client can return the application packet with all supporting materials, the faster the approval and placement processes will move.
