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• To step
• Method 1 of 3: Finding a service dog to adopt
• Method 2 of 3: Adopt a service dog with a career switch
• Method 3 of 3: Adopt a service dog as a needy person

A service dog that a career switch is a service dog that has not passed the service dog training program.If you want to adopt one of these dogs as a pet, the process is different than if you want to adopt a service dog to help you with your disability. You will need to find an organization that puts these dogs up for adoption. Keep in mind that there is usually a long waiting list for service dogs making a career switch. If you want to adopt a service dog to help you with your disability, it's not just that adoption. You must sign up for the program, be admitted, and receive self-training before getting a dog.

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Method 1 of 3: Finding a service dog to adopt

1. Search the internet for service dog organizations in your area. Many of these organizations have dogs that can be adopted. These can be dogs that have not passed the training or dogs that are no longer on duty. Try searching on adopt service dog in combination with your city.
   • These organizations are usually located in larger cities, so you may need to travel a little if you live in a small town.
2. Check out the dogs that can be adopted on the organization's website. Most of the organizations have a website. On that website, there is usually a specific tab for dogs available for adoption. Every dog ​​probably has a photo and biography. You can review the options on your own time to determine if one of these dogs is a good fit for your family.
3. Ask why the dog failed the training. Typically, the dogs are simply not suited to the training required to become a service dog. In that case, the dog will become a fantastic pet. However, always ask to make sure you don't mind the problem.
4. Visit the organization. It is also a good idea to visit the organization. This way you can meet the dogs and immediately see if one of them has a personality that fits well with your family. You can also check the facilities to make sure the area is clean.

Method 2 of 3: Adopt a service dog with a career switch

1. View the conditions of the organization. Places that train service dogs may have slightly more stringent requirements than a normal dog shelter. Check these requirements on the website, or check in person. You may need to be at least 21 years old or sign an agreement stating that you cannot use the dog as a service dog.
   • Keep in mind that many of these organizations have a waiting list. You may have to wait years before you can adopt one of the dogs.
2. Choose a dog that is a good fit for you. Start by deciding which dog you want. Look for playful, happy traits, such as when the dog licks your hand, wags its tail, hops around, or bows its head with its butt pointing up.
   • Bring other family members to make sure the dog is a good fit for you. Even if he responds well to you, he may react very differently to someone of the opposite sex or to children.
3. Fill in an application. Most organizations have an application process. During the application, you will likely be asked for information such as how you will care for the dog, whether you can keep it indoors, and whether you have other pets.
   • You may also be asked to briefly write down why you want this type of dog.
4. Answer any questions the organization has for you. After the organization has received your application, the employees may have additional questions for you. Answer these questions as openly and honestly as possible.
   • For example, if you have had several dogs in a short period of time, they may ask you why you had so many different dogs. They may also ask you how you plan to acclimate the dog to your home.
5. Bring the dog home temporarily as a test. There is usually a probationary period of about a week when you bring the dog home. This gives you and the dog a chance to see if the dog is a good fit in the household.
6. Give the dog a day or two to get used to. Have the dog spend some time with each family member to make sure he gets along with everyone. In addition, gradually introduce the dog to any other pets to see if they get along.
7. Sign the adoption papers and pay the costs. If you and the organization are both satisfied that the dog is a good fit for you, you can sign the adoption papers. You will probably also have to pay an amount, which can be between 80 and 500 euros, depending on the organization.
   • In some cases, you will have to pay before you bring the dog home for the trial period.

Method 3 of 3: Adopt a service dog as a needy person

1. Find a service dog program. Your city may not have a service dog program. However, most programs are open to people from other areas. Choose a program that trains service dogs for the help you need.
   • For example, some programs focus on guiding the blind, while others focus on helping veterans or other people with disabilities.
2. View the costs. Some programs require a fee for the service dog, while others are completely free and you don't have to pay anything for your dog. However, keep travel costs in mind if you have to travel to pick up your dog.
3. Register for the program by filling in an application form. The form should be available on the website. Applications for most of these programs are quite extensive, as there are more applications than there are dogs. So they want to make sure that every potential candidate is a good match. An application can take several months, so be prepared for that.
   • You may need to provide information about your medical situation, as well as information about your education, employment, travel options and any previous experience with service dogs.
   • You will probably also need to provide references. In some cases you have to prove that you can travel independently.
4. Do the workout. Service dogs are extensively trained, but they are not the only ones who need it! You will also need to be trained in working with your dog so that you can use his training properly to help you. The training can last 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the program you choose.
   • Often you work 1 on 1 with an instructor and your dog to learn everything you need to know.
   • Some training is done at home. That depends on the organization.
5. Take your new service dog home. Once you have completed the training, you can take your new service dog home to become part of your family. It may take a while for your dog to get used to the new environment, so be patient. Introduce the dog gradually to other family members and pets.
6. Learn your rights as an owner of a service dog. If you have a disability, you have the right to take your dog to most public places and to your workplace to assist you. The only exception to this rule are locations where specific hygiene rules apply, such as operating theaters; in such cases the organization may refuse entry of the dog.
7. Keep your service dog under control in public areas. While you have the right to keep your dog with you to help you in public areas, you are obligated to keep your dog under control. In general, that means keeping the dog on a leash, unless that restricts the dog from offering help.
   • If your dog has to run loose, he should remain under your control with voice and hand commands.