Very Important Pets

Applications for our Very Important Pets are currently closed.

Life-changing PETS

PADS VIP Dogs are very well-trained dogs from our programs that are better suited for a life as a pet. These dogs are placed with a child or adult who has a disability, and who would benefit from the companionship of a loving pet but may not have the time or ability to train a dog. VIP Dogs do not have public access rights or specialized skill training.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Like all our dogs, we strive to make the perfect match for our VIP placements. Our VIPS are placed based on the dogโ€™s personality and the familyโ€™s needs, rather than on a first-come-first-served basis.

VIP Dogs are placed with individuals with a disability, and preference is given to children with disabilities. We also accept applications from adults with disabilities who do not require a Service Dog, but would like the companionship of a well-trained and socialized dog. Applicants must be able to ensure an adult is home during the day, as our dogs are not accustomed to being left alone for more than four hours.ย 

VIPs are released from training for reasons that make them unsuitable for Service Dog work, such as inappropriate barking or energy levels. Applicants should expect some of these behaviours to be present.ย ย 

Meet the Class of 2024 VIPs

Meet the Very Important Pets who landed in their furever homes in 2024!

Samwise the Stouthearted

Named after the iconic character in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, PADS Samwise was always fated to be someone’s loyal companion.

Kristy and Hayward

From August 2020: Hear how Kristy’s family have benefited from having PADS VIP Hayward join their family.

Sponsor a VIP

Donations make these incredible placements possible. Sponsor a Very Important Pet and become part of something life-changing.