HOW TO APPLY

Welcome to the Working Dogs For Vets Family. Our application process is designed to ensure the safety of our veterans and the welfare of our rescue dogs. Please follow these steps in order to begin your journey.

Step 1: Request Your Application

To begin the process, please email our National Onboarding Team to request the official Veteran Application.

Email: support@workingdogsforvets.org

Subject Line: Application Request: [Your Full Name]

Note: Please include your branch of service and your location in the email so we can provide the correct regional information.

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Step 2: The Medical Recommendation
(Clinical Success)

To protect the integrity of our program and fight Stolen Valor, we require a direct recommendation from your healthcare provider.

Action: Download the Provider Referral & Medical Inquiry Packet below and take it to your VA Doctor or Healthcare Provider.
Submission: To ensure clinical validity, this form must be returned directly from the doctor's office to WDFV via Fax (843-647-4357) or Email (support@workingdogsforvets.org). We do not accept hand-carried medical forms Download Provider Referral Packet (PDF)

Step 3: Verification & Initial Interview

Once we have received both your application and your doctor’s referral, our National Onboarding Team will review your file.

Follow Up: Contact us at 84-DOGS-HELP (843-647-4357) to verify your documents were received.
Interview: We will schedule a phone or video interview to discuss your needs and our training models.

Step 4: Regional Evaluation

After passing the initial interview, you will move to the field evaluation stage.

Privacy & Location: You will be assigned to the nearest Regional Lead (TN, OH, KY, GA, AL, SC, CO, or MO). more to follow
Note: To protect the professional livelihood and privacy of our volunteer trainers, all meeting locations are coordinated through National HQ. Please do not contact trainers directly. [Button: View Training Hub Locations & Privacy Model (PDF)]

Program Guide & Eligibility

Requirements for the

No Veteran Left Behind Program.

Thank you for your interest in Working Dogs For Vets. The Working Dogs For Vets organization is a 501(c)(3) that is more like a family. Our family comprises a network of volunteers who meet one-on-one with veterans to help you train your service dog. We help veterans suffering from PTSD, TBI, Mobility, Stability, Seizures, Diabetes, MST, Hearing or visual impairment, and much more.

Requirements for the No Veteran Left Behind Program

I am a disabled veteran.
I am financially, physically, and cognitively capable of caring for a dog.
I received a doctor's recommendation for a service dog, and my doctor feels that participation in this program will help me. I am capable of training my service dog with help.

I can commit to weekly training sessions for one year or possibly more.
I agree to pay it forward and help others in need of help when I am able.
I will help raise public awareness.

I printed, signed, and mailed the application to Working Dogs For Vets for approval (Note: We will review applications and ensure that our program is right for you). Please be patient. We are working as quickly as possible to help many applicants.
I have not been convicted of any crime against animals.
I will get involved and volunteer to help other W.D.F.V. members
I agree to abide by all policies and procedures.

You are always welcome to call after applying to check in with us.

Thank you for your service and interest in joining our Working Dogs For Vets Family!

Combat Veterans that meet the above requirements receive priority, All Veterans that meet the above requirements are welcome to email support@workingdogsforvets for an application.

Official Authorization Statement

By submitting an application to Working Dogs For Vets, I hereby authorize the organization and its designated agents to conduct a comprehensive background screening. > I understand that this screening is conducted at no cost to me and is used solely to ensure the safety and integrity of the WDFV family, our volunteers, and the animals in our care. I further understand that this authorization serves as my digital consent to verify my eligibility and background in accordance with program safety standards.