Application Information
Thank you for your interest in our organization. It is important to us that you read all of the information carefully for this is a very important undertaking you are considering, training a service dog.
The applications provided give information about the organization, the service dog program, fees, other costs to consider. We realize we are asking for a lot of information, however we take this endeavor very seriously. Training a service dog could potentially mean years of involvement with the organization. Most people with a service dog will be partnered with that dog for at least eight years. Being with us is a reflection of a very long term commitment.
If you are a minor or are designated as needing a guardian, that designated person will also need to sign any of the forms requiring your signature.
Please take note that filling out an application and/or participating in an evaluation does not guarantee that Gateway To Canine Partnerships will be able to offer you training services and/or a service dog.
Currently, we have several open times for appointments both in the morning and afternoon. Please have your schedule in mind when you call to make an appointment for an evaluation.
Service Dog Certification Process
Gateway To Canine Partnerships (GCP) reviews each application and schedules an individual interview to evaluate both the client and their service dog. GCP will also attempt to find dogs for applicants and complete an assessment of each dog. We collaborate with several organizations that rescue and shelter dogs.
Human-Canine Team acceptance is based on the client's ability and commitment to: control, train, and care for the dog; establish a bond with the dog; and follow Gateway standards and expectations. Dog's acceptance into GCP Program is based on its ability to learn, assist and be non-aggressive.
Certification is based on the following:
- Passes Canine Good Citizenship Test and Public Access Test
- Has at least 3 specific skills addressing individual's physical needs.
- Meets Gateway's Service Dogs Standards around care of canine partner.
- Signs Gateway agreements concerning Service Dog Standards.
- Completes 130 hours of documented training and 28 hours with a GCP trainer.
Human-Canine Teams will receive a Gateway Service Dog Vest and ID valid for 1 year.
Re-certification does not require taking a class; it requires meeting the standards for Obedience, Public Access and Task Specific Skills. GCP has a success rate of over 90% for service dog certification and annual re-certification. Failure to certify is typically due to unforeseen medical emergencies that prevent clients from following through with training requirements and caring for a service animal.
