Shelter To Service Dog Program
We don’t just rescue dogs, we empower them to rescue people. Our Shelter to Service Dog Program transforms overlooked shelter dogs into life-saving companions, creating powerful partnerships that change two lives forever.
Our Mission and Vision
Furry Friends is committed to harnessing the power of the human-animal bond to put more healing leashes into the hands of more people in need. Through our Shelter to Service Dog Program, we rescue dogs at risk of euthanasia and train them to become life-changing partners. These dogs go on to provide essential support; whether physical, emotional, or psychological, offering their handlers greater independence, stability, and connection. Each match is thoughtfully made to improve the individual’s unique lifestyle, limitations, and needs, creating a bond that transforms both lives. At Furry Friends, every leash is a lifeline.
Three Pathways to Healing
Every journey is different. These are the three ways we create life-changing bonds.
Hero Dogs for Gold Star & Blue Star Families
Through our partnership with Operation 300, we provide trained Hero Dogs to support Gold Star and Blue Star families, those who have sacrificed or served in extraordinary ways. These dogs offer comfort, stability, and healing to families navigating life after loss or deployment.
Emotional Support Dogs
We train Emotional Support Dogs (ESDs), to provide everyday comfort and emotional grounding. These dogs are perfect for individuals who need consistent emotional support, but not the task-specific training required of a service dog. A Hero Dog can offer companionship, emotional balance, and a trusted friend by your side.
Service Dogs
Our Service Dogs receive advanced, task-specific training to assist individuals with medical, mobility, or psychiatric needs. These dogs are carefully matched and trained to meet their handler’s unique challenges, providing life-changing support, independence, and safety.
Our Process Explained
1
Application & Selection
We conduct thorough screenings and temperament evaluations to ensure the best fit for both dogs and handlers.
2
Training & Matching
Handlers will work alongside their future companion and training with our staff to ensure a succesful pairing.
3
Placement & Support
After matching with a handler, we provide ongoing training and annual recertification to ensure a successful partnership.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Qualifies
We serve individuals whose lives could be meaningfully improved by the support of a highly trained service or support dog. This includes people who may experience:
-
-
Medical or mobility challenges
-
Emotional or psychological needs
-
Developmental or sensory differences
-
Situations where increased confidence, safety, or companionship is essential
-
Disability Type
We support individuals with various disabilities, including physical, psychiatric, and emotional needs.
Living Environment
A stable living environment is essential for the well-being of both the dog and handler.
Application Process
Complete our application form. Questions? Email s2sd@ffhumane.org
Commitment to Care
Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the ongoing care and training of their dog. This includes annual recertification for service dogs.
Support System
A strong support system is beneficial for both the handler and the service dog.
Follow-Up
Regular follow-ups ensure the continued success of the handler-dog partnership.
Support Our Mission
Your contribution helps us provide life-changing support dogs to those in need. Join us in making a difference today.
Common Questions About Our Program
Explore answers to frequently asked questions about our training and adoption process.
Do I need prior experience with dogs?
No prior experience is necessary. Our team provides comprehensive guidance and support throughout the process.
What kind of dogs are available?
All of our dogs are rescued from municipal shelters, often facing the risk of euthanasia due to overcrowding. Because of this, there’s no single “type” of dog. We work with a wide variety of breeds, sizes, and personalities. What they all have in common is this: each one is a life saved, a story rewritten, and a chance to become someone’s hero.
How long does the training process take?
The training timeline varies, but it typically spans several months to ensure proper bonding and skill development.
Can I visit the dogs before adopting?
Yes, we encourage potential adopters to meet the dogs to find the best match for their lifestyle and needs.
Our Community Partners
