Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a service dog cost?
A: We are unable to give a standard price for the cost of a service dog because it varies so much.
Q: How much do you charge for training a service dog?
A: Training costs are based on each individual client's household income. Fees are charged on a sliding fee scale.
Q: What kind of dogs make the best service dogs?
A: At GCP we work mostly with labs and golden retrievers. There are other breeds that can be trained to help their person. Our Training staff can help make decisions on your specific needs and if your dog can be trained to meet those needs.
Q: When can I start training a puppy to become a service dog?
A: Obedience or "Puppy Kindergarten" classes can start as early as 12 weeks. Specific skills are taught at different levels and your puppy may not become a certified service dog until he/she is a year old.
Q: How do I apply for your services/program?
A: Applications are available here. We will schedule an interview appointment with you to determine if you are eligible for our services. We work mostly with people who have physical and/or mental disabilities. Each client is different and we evaluate each individual.
Q: Can you train a dog to alert me when I am going to have a seizure?
A: We are able to train for seizure response. How a service dog is able to alert its person to a potential seizure comes from the bonding experience between the human-canine connection.
Q: Can I train my dog to be a service dog?
A: We will evaluate your dog at the time of the interview to determine if your dog is able to perform the tasks you require.
Q: Can I take my service dog with me everywhere?
A: Yes! The American Disabilities Act states that a trained service dog can go anywhere with its person. That includes to movie theatres, restaurants, buses, airplanes, to school and work.
Q: Do you train seeing-eye dogs?
A: No. There is a wonderful organization in Salt Lake that trains guide dogs for the blind. We train most other types of disabilities including hearing impairment.
