Step 1: Review Eligibility Requirements:

Before applying, please carefully review the eligibility criteria outlined below. These minimum standards are non-negotiable and are required for participation in our program.

Step 2: Submit an Application:

To begin, complete the linked Google Form. This form includes questions regarding your disability, your dog, and your goals for service dog training through ACKS.

Step 3: Application Review & Interview Scheduling: 

You will receive a response from our team within 60 days of submitting your application. We apologize for the wait due to high volume of applications normally potential clients are contacted within 30 days. The initial application is free and does not require a medical letter upfront. If your application is approved, you will receive a link to schedule an interview with us.

During this interview, a formal training agreement will be created based on your needs and goals discussed in your application. At this stage, you must submit a signed letter of medical necessity from a licensed medical or mental health professional  within two weeks of your interview. All letters MUST be current date of current year.

Step 4: Final Approval & Onboarding:

Once we receive and verify your medical documentation, we will follow up with your final approval. You will receive:

• A payment timeline and invoice

• A request for your dog’s measurements

• A scheduled date for your first training session and evaluation

Important Note: Your dog will undergo a temperament and suitability evaluation on the first training day. If your dog does not meet the program’s behavioral standards, your payment will be refunded, and you will not be enrolled in the program.

These requirements must be met without exception in order to be considered:

Dog Ownership: Applicants must already own a dog. We do not provide or train facility-owned service dogs. Your dog must be:

•   Between 6 months - 2.5 years old

•   Fully vaccinated

• Altered or plan to be Altered

•   Free from aggressive or reactive behavior

•   Capable of forming a strong working bond with you

Documented Life-Inhibiting Disability:

You must have a disability that significantly impacts your daily life, as documented by a licensed medical or psychiatric professional.

Medical Recommendation:

  A letter of recommendation from a licensed medical or psychiatric provider is required to confirm the need for a service dog.

Handler Capability:

  You must be physically, emotionally, and mentally capable of caring for and managing your service dog independently and safely. 

Minors & Guardian Support:

  Minors may apply with the support of a legal guardian. However, the minor must demonstrate the ability to independently control and handle the dog without parental assistance.

  Note: We do not allow triad teams

• Triad team arrangements—such as a parent, minor, and dog—are not permitted in our program. Examples of this include scenarios where the parent maintains physical control of the leash or issues verbal task cues on behalf of the minor. At ACKS, it is essential that all applicants, including minors, are capable of serving as the direct handler of their service dog. This means the applicant must independently control the leash, issue commands, and engage with the dog throughout the training process. The working relationship between the dog and the handler must be direct and consistent to ensure effective training and long-term reliability.

Financial Commitment:

  If accepted, applicants must pay 50% of the program cost within 30 days of approval via check.

Location Requirements:

  You must reside in San Diego County, CA, or be able to travel to San Diego weekly for in-person training sessions.

Program Attendance:

  Participants must commit to attending at least 90% of all training sessions. You may miss up to 10 training days within the year.

  Sessions occur weekly and last between 8 -10 hours.  Biweekly assignments must also be completed on time.

Transportation Expectations:

  While you are not required to have a personal vehicle, you must have reliable access to public transportation, such as prepared to buy passes. Training in public transit environments is essential for developing task reliability and social readiness (e.g., learning tuck positions, public navigation).

Communication & Tracking:

  Applicants must be able to effectively communicate with our trainers, both verbally and in writing. You will be required to complete weekly training logs and return them during your training sessions. These logs are essential for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement.

If you meet all the above requirements and are ready to begin your journey with ACKS, please complete our google form to start the process.

We look forward to supporting you in building a life-changing partnership with your service dog.