SDI’s new Psychiatric Service Dog Program helps Texans living with PTSD gain greater independence and stability with a Service Dog partner.
Psychiatric Service Dogs can:
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Interrupt panic or anxiety episodes
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Wake their handler from nightmares
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Turn on lights in dark rooms
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Help filter overstimulation in public by body positioning
We serve Texans living with PTSD that significantly affects daily life. Successful applicants must be able to take care of a dog in their home, attend SDI Team Training week at our campus in Dripping Springs, currently be in, or successfully completed, therapy and not have another dog.
Application Process
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Submit your application. Complete the full online application, including photos and videos of your home environment and the areas where the dog will spend most of its time with you. (Approximately 1-2 hours to complete)
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Attend Applicant Orientation: You will be invited to our campus in Dripping Springs, Texas for a scheduled interview with our trainers and staff and learn more about the training and Wait List process. (Half day, typically a Monday or Friday.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a cost?
SDI trains and provides Service Dogs at no cost to approved applicants. You are responsible for a $50 background check fee, as well as the cost of caring for the dog over its lifetime once we move it into your home, including veterinary costs. Just like a well cared for pet dog, annual cost is approximately $2,500.
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Do you accept out-of-state applications?
At this time, we serve Texas residents only.