VETERAN QUALIFICATIONS & APPLICATION

The requirements for participation in PAD are:

  • Be a U.S. Military Veteran discharged under honorable conditions. We may consider other conditions with an explanation.
  • Be a resident of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, or Wisconsin.
  • Be undergoing treatment for mental health impairments. (PTSD, Anxiety, Depression etc.) The impairment does not have to be service connected.
  • Have a licensed mental health care provider complete a form (that we provide), as well as complete and sign a medical release information form. This person can be a civilian or a VA provider.
  • Be physically and financially capable of providing a safe and secure home for a service dog.
  • Provide two letters of reference from people you know that can verify your ability to care for and provide a safe home for a service dog.
    • ​​Upon receipt of a PAD dog you will be required to have a sponsor who will be able to care for your service dog in emergency situations.
    • One of these references should be the individual who agrees to act as your sponsor. The sponsor functions similar to an AA sponsor, not a financial sponsor.
  • Provide a letter from the licensed veterinarian of your choice, acknowledging that you will be using them for the medical care of your service dog. You will be required to sign a release of information so we can maintain contact with your veterinary clinic concerning the health of your service animal.
  • The Veteran must be able to attend a five-day class in Detroit Lakes Minnesota.
  • The Veteran must be able to return to Detroit Lakes to attend training pertinent to your Public Access test if necessary.
  • The Veteran must be able to return to Detroit Lakes, MN to take the Public Access test with their dog, a test taken anywhere between six weeks and six months from date of class.

If you meet the above qualifications, and would like to proceed with your application, you have two ways that you can apply:

You can click on this link and apply online: VETERAN ONLINE APPLICATION.

Please note that when you apply for a service dog online, you will need to upload the following documents:

  • A copy of your DD214.
  • A completed Mental Health Provider Form. This form is available in the packet below. Please give this to your current mental health care provider to complete and then submit it with your application.
  • Two letters of reference from individuals you know well that can verify your ability to care for and provide a safe home for a service dog. Please be sure that the letters are dated and that it includes contact information (Name, phone number, address) for each reference.
  • One dated letter from your Veterinarian of choice, stating that they will care for your service dog.

APPLICATION

PAD VETERAN APPLICATION PROCESS (and more)

This flow chart will take you through the steps from the date of your application right up to additional training. It is a useful tool that will help you as you move through the application process, as well as learning about what comes after you have been placed with your service dog.

PROCESS