Frequently Asked Questions

What is autism?
Bio-neurological disorder that is observable in early childhood with symptoms of abnormal self-absorption, characterised by lack of response to other humans and by limited ability or disinclination to communicate and socialize. Other symptoms include avoiding eye contact, sensory integration dysfunction, and restricted and repetitive behaviors such as stims.

How old does my child have to be in order to be eligible for an autism assistance dog?
Its our belief the disability combined with lack of maturity in a child under 5 runs the risk of inability between the child and the dog to bond properly. We understand that each case is different, however we typically do not recommend placing a dog in a home where the autistic child is less than 5 years of age.

Whats the difference between us and other organizations?
Based on our professional training experience and our decades of combined knowledge we have perfected a system of canine selection that will place the best suited dog with your particular situation. Our prices are often more affordable that other groups because we do not manage large and often expensive, puppy programs in which a large number of pups do not "make it" to be working assistance dogs. Whereas this cost is offset by increasing the prices of the dogs that are actually sold. Our waiting list and wait times to obtain an autism assistance dog is typically much less that other organizations as well. We feel that having to wait 2-5 years to obtain a dog is impractical and doesn't meet the needs of the family and child in need.

What kind of dogs are eligible?
We understand that each situation is unique and one breed will not fit every families needs, however we have found that certain breeds have the temperament, suitability, and drive to make successful assistance dogs. Typical service dog breeds include Labradors, Golden Retriever, Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Standard Poodles, Border Collies and German Shepherds. We have had the opportunity to work with a large number of mixed breeds who have passed our service evaluation process and have become successful service dogs.

Do you offer financial assistance?
Although we do not offer financial assistance we would be more then happy to provide you information regarding fundraising or any available grants.

Can we train your personal dog?
We are more then happy to evaluate your dog with our service evaluation and temperament testing.

What type of training is involved with our child and our family?
Our service agreement includes a 5 day session with a parent/guardian, the child and the dog. During these sessions we will cover how the dog was trained, how your family and the child should handle the dog and how to maintain the dogs training.

What type of maintenance is there to keep the dog trained?
We offer many different options in order to maintain the training on your service dog for years to come. On the day of pickup we will cover a specific program and training to fit the particular needs of your family, but in general we suggest that you work with one of our trainers at least once a year for 3-4 days to work out any kinks and/or learn any new techniques.

Does an autism dog have the same rights as a service dog?
Yes. The ADA or Americans with Disabilties Act governs the use of service dogs to assist people. The ADA also outlines where dogs can be taken and under what circumstances.

How long does it take to train the dog?
Once a dog is chosen for your child and your family, it usually takes between 3-4 months. Some situations may require extensive training that can extend past 4 months.

How do Assistance dogs help?
Studies have shown that time spent with service animals can break through a childs communication barriers and provide successful results. Autism assistance dogs can build bridges for children where insecurities once. For instance, having a service dog will help build a constant stability in the childs life which will ultimately help him/her with social and situational interaction.

What happens if the dog and the family don’t bond?
We guarantee that the placement of the dog with your family will be a successful one.

Do you have delivery services available?
We have a free delivery service within a 60 mile radius of our central location in Harmony, NC. Any other delivery expenses must be paid at the owners expense.

Can you customize a dog to my childs needs?
Yes, through our application process we test to find a dog that will compliment your child and can train the dog to the specific needs of the child and the family.