A PTSD service dog is a highly trained assistance dog that supports individuals with PTSD or CPTSD to live with greater independence, safety, and confidence. A PADS PTSD service dog is trained to support first responders and veterans by interupting behaviours and performing calming and grounding skills that encourage wellness and social reintegration.

Applicants must be a veteran and first responder (police, fire, paramedic, or military; active duty or retired), have a diagnosis of PTSD or CPTSD, and be able to care for and work consistently with a service dog. Applicants must also be willing to participate fully in training and ongoing follow-up support. 

No. We only serve current/former First Responders and Veterans in our PTSD Service Dog Program. If you are a civilian requiring a PTSD service dog, we recommend searching for an accredited program to serve your needs at assistancedogsinternational.org

Yes. A qualified mental health professional must complete the required Psychological Assessment Form, and be available to provide essential continuity of care and support during your PTSD service dog placement.

PADS places service dogs with eligible clients across Western Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. 

Each application is reviewed individually. PADS considers an applicant’s needs, lifestyle, and ability to care for a service dog to determine whether a placement may be appropriate. 

The application process goes as follows:

1. Application Form – Submit this form with accurate and complete information.
2. Application Review – Our team will review your application within 10 working days and notify you by email whether we will be moving forward.
3. Interview – Conducted online (MS Teams) or in person.
4. Supporting Documents & Payment of Application Fee – Completion of a Medical History Form; completion of a Psychological Evaluation Form by your psychologist, registered clinical counsellor, social worker, or similar; submission of a reference letter; submission of proof of veteran or first responder status; and payment of a $50 non-refundable application fee. 
5. Full Application Review – Confirmation that all required documents have been received. If you are deemed an appropriate candidate, you will be added to the PADS waitlist.
6. Waitlist & Updates – PADS will contact you when a potential match is available and will follow up periodically regarding any changes in your situation.
7. Team Training – Once a match is confirmed, you will be given information about next steps, including a $200 Team Training Fee and arrangements for your training program
8. Follow Up – After Team Training, PADS staff will support you and your new partner to ensure a smooth transition. A probation test will be conducted approximately 45 days after placement.

Because each placement depends on finding the right match between a client and a dog, wait times vary and cannot be predicted or guaranteed. Placements take into account the client’s needs and lifestyle, along with the dog’s skills and temperament. PADS is unable to provide individual wait time estimates.

No, submitting an application does not guarantee placement. The goal of the process is to ensure a safe, successful, and sustainable partnership for both the client and the dog. 

Successful applicants are required to participate in structured training with their service dog, as well as ongoing follow-up support after placement. 

Team Training takes place at the PADS campus in Burnaby, BC, and is usually a two weeks in duration. Team Training is a “crash course” in learning to work with your new PADS Dog, and to familiarize yourself to life with a service dog.

Individuals travelling to the Vancouver area are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodations. Those commuting from the region may wish to stay locally during evenings involving late field trips. Participants are expected to cover their own costs, including any field trip expenses or equipment needs. If you require any additional support or adaptations, such as interpreters, note takers, or a family member/friend accompanying you, PADS needs to be informed prior to Team Training commencing. 

PADS provides ongoing guidance and follow-up to support both the client and the dog, helping to maintain a strong and effective working partnership over time.