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.

Where Our Dogs Come From Service Dogs for Victims of Assault (SDVA) obtains all dogs from German Shepherd rescue groups throughout California and the Pacific Northwest, local animal shelters, from breeders who donate them and owner relinquished pets. To enter the SDVA program dogs must be between ages one and six. They are tested for temperament and veterinary good health. After passing a stringent evaluation, suitable dogs are placed into training in order to prepare them for their new life as a service dog.