GENERAL INQUIRIES
What kind of service dogs does ADW train?
Mobility Dogs
Seizure Response Dogs (within New Mexico)
Autism Dogs
Medical Alert Dogs for Type I Diabetes (within New Mexico)
Veteran PTSD Dogs
Social Therapy Dogs
Facility Dogs
Courthouse Facility Dogs
Crisis Response Canines
ADW does not train leader dogs for people who are blind or hearing dogs for people who are deaf.
What breeds do you use and why?
Most often, we use Labradors and Golden retrievers because of their innate interest in retrieving, good work ethic and cheerful dispositions. We have also used Labradoodles and worked with many different breeds through the Owner/Self-Training program.
How long are the dogs in training?
Most of our dogs are in training for 18 to 24 months, and usually placed with a client when they are around 2 years old.
I want to become an assistance dog trainer. Can ADW teach me?
Unfortunately, we do not have a program to teach others how to become dog trainers. Most of our training staff received their education at Bergin University of Canine Studies. We suggest that you explore their website to learn how to get started.
PROSPECTIVE CLIENTS
How do I apply for an ADW dog?
Please review the eligibility requirements to begin the application process.
How long is your waitlist?
Although the ADW waiting list is shorter than many service dog organizations, it averages one to three years to make a client/dog match. Client/dog interviews are conducted on a regular basis during this time to assess needs and potential matches.
How much does it cost to get a dog from ADW?
Clients pay for the services provided by ADW. The breakdown of when fees are due is listed on the client application. In total, it costs ADW about $35,000 to raise and train each dog. ADW asks clients to pay only for the client services as follows:
Autism/Mobility/Veteran PTSD: $7,500 in state / $10,000 out-of-state
***ADW frequently has funding support for Veteran applicants***
Diabetic Alert / Seizure Response: $15,000 (only within new Mexico)
Psychiatric Support (civilian PTSD, anxiety, depression): $18,000 / $20,500 out-of-state
Facility, Courthouse, Crisis Response Dogs: $12,000
Do you place dogs out-of-state?
Sometimes. All out-of-state placements are considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants should be aware that they must be able to travel to Santa Fe for the client process, which includes an intake interview, multiple dog-matching interviews, and a two-week long Client Placement Training. We are not able to offer Friday, weekend or evening appointments. Travel, lodging, and other expenses are the responsibility of the applicant. If you live outside of New Mexico, we strongly recommend that you first attempt to locate an organization closer to your geographical region. See the Assistance Dogs International website for a list of ADI-accredited, member agencies across the country. **ADW does not place Diabetic Alert or Seizure Response dogs out-of-state.**
Do you place dogs with children?
ADW places assistance dogs with kids who are 5 years and older at the time of application.
What is the application process?
The Client Placement process basically consists of three stages:
1. Application & Intake
The applicant completes an application, and then has an intake interview with ADW staff. (Approx. 2-4 months for this process)
2. Interview Process
If accepted, the client participates in Interview Appointments, to identify the correct dog match. (Approx. 1-3 years for this process)
3. Client Placement Training
The client participates in Client Placement Training, which teaches them to work correctly and effectively with their service dog partner. (Two weeks to complete this training, with weekends off)
For a full list of steps involved in client placement, facility team placement, and owner/self-training, please request an application packet where the process is described in full. Please review the eligibility requirements to begin the application process.
OWNER / SELF TRAINING
I have a dog I’d like to train to be an assistance dog. Can you help?
ADW offers an Owner/Self-Training program for people who already have their own dog. Dogs should be under 3 years of age and must pass a temperament assessment to participate in this program. ADW cannot guarantee that every dog that enters OST program will achieve the standards necessary to be a service dog. This program takes place in Santa Fe, New Mexico and requires weekly in-person training sessions. Owner/Self-Training teams must work with ADW for a minimum of six months (on average, most OST teams require 12-18 months of training with ADW to achieve the skills necessary for Public Access).
CERTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
How can I get my dog certified or registered as an assistance dog?
Currently, there is no state or federal requirement for certification or registration of service dogs. To qualify as a service dog, the dog must be individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability, as defined by The Americans with Disabilities Act, and demonstrate appropriate behavior in public places. ADW offers an Owner/Self-Training program for people with disabilities who would like formal instruction in training their dog to be an assistance dog.
Can I purchase a vest or ID cards from ADW?
No. ADW only supplies vests and ID cards to teams that have completed the Client Placement or Owner/Self-Training program.
I have an emotional support animal and want to take her into public.
Per the Americans with Disabilities Act, dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals, and therefore do not have access to places of public accommodation.
I am moving to another country, but they require my assistance dog be certified by an ADI-accredited agency. Can you help?
Please take a look at our Owner/Self-Training program. Owner/Self-Training teams must work with ADW for a minimum of six months. The weekly training sessions take place at our facility in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
STUDENT PROGRAMS
Where do the after school classes take place?
ADW OFFICE, 1590 San Mateo Lane, Santa Fe, NM 87505
My child is 7, but turning 8 soon. Can I enroll her for after school classes?
ADW requires that students be at least 8 years old by the first day of class in order to enroll in after school.
Can I bring my dog?
We love your pets, but our liability does not cover dogs even when dropping off or picking up. Only program dogs are allowed in the building.
Can I stay with my child during class
We are happy to offer a one-time 15-minute sneak preview for parents or caregivers at the beginning of the 1st day of class.
What should my child wear?
Comfortable clothing that they don’t mind getting dog hair on, and sensible shoes.
Does my child need to bring anything?
Just a good attitude!
DONATING AND VOLUNTEERING
Where can I send my tax-deductible donation?
Assistance Dogs of the West
PO Box 31027
Santa Fe , NM 87594
PHONE: 505-986-9748
Fax: 505.989.9640
What if I don’t have cash to give?
There are many other types of non-cash gifts which can be considered as a contribution: securities, personal property, equipment, real estate, life insurance, fine art, etc. In-kind gifts of products and services also help to reduce ADW costs.
We would be happy to work with you and your financial advisor to help you make a contribution that meets your charitable needs. Planned giving is also a way to leave ADW a program sustaining gift. Please contact the ADW office with any questions.
How can I volunteer?
From Puppy Raisers and Puppy Sitters to administrative help and special events, we are looking for talented and enthusiastic dog lovers. Find out more about our opportunities.
