Ask what the wait estimate measures
A quoted wait may start at initial application, acceptance, dog matching or completion of prerequisites. Two providers can publish the same number while describing very different timelines.
Application status matters as much as wait time
A program with a two-year wait but closed applications may be less actionable than a three-year program accepting applicants now. ServiceCanines tracks these as separate fields.
Keep your shortlist current
Provider capacity changes. Recheck application status, geography, service type and fees before investing time in a long application.
Do not pay simply to “hold a place” without understanding the agreement
If a provider requires deposits, application fees or fundraising, read the terms and ask what happens if no suitable match is found or your circumstances change.
Find programs that fit
Use the ServiceCanines provider directory to compare service type, location, cost, dog sourcing, current application status and other practical requirements.
Find Service Dog Providers