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.