NOTE: Throughout this web site, the names of clients and their dogs have been changed, and the faces of clients have been hidden, to protect their identities.

Candidates Victims/Survivors of violent crimes who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, agoraphobia, or other clinical diagnoses in response to rape, assault, or stalking are eligible for service dogs through SDVA. Victims/Survivors must have documentation of the precipitating event(s) such as police or court records. Additionally, victims/survivors need a letter of referral from a psychiatrist, medical doctor, social worker, law enforcement agency or psychologist prescribing a dog to serve as a service dog. Click here if you are a health professional seeking guidelines. NOTE: Victims/survivors of spousal abuse do not qualify. Clients are expected to participate in a specialized training program which will make them effective and responsible canine handlers. If you are interested in obtaining further information about our program please email sdvadogs3@aol.com.