Service Dog FAQ

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Service Dogs

WHERE DO YOU GET THE DOGS?

We obtain dogs from a variety of sources including reputable breeders and rescued dogs. We are committed to using “pound puppies” whenever possible provided they meet our strict size, health and temperament standards. Carolina Canines will be developing our own breeding program to maintain the high standards and qualities needed for dogs to succeed as working dogs.

WHAT BREEDS ARE USED?

We primarily use Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds. We have found that a mix of these breeds can be the best of both worlds.

IS A MALE OR FEMALE DOG BETTER FOR THIS WORK?

Both sexes are equally suited to be Carolina Canines for Service. All dogs are neutered before placement so their working behavior will not be affected by hormonal changes.

WHAT TEMPERAMENT QUALITIES DO SERVICE DOGS NEED?

We are looking for intelligent dogs with a strong desire to please, predictable behavior and the ability to readily form an affectionate bond with humans.

HOW LONG DOES A PUPPY REMAIN IN THE FOSTER HOME?

A puppy is placed in a foster home between 6 and 7 weeks of age and remains there until it exhibits maturity and is past adolescence (usually when the dog is 16-24 months old).

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THE ADVANCED TRAINING?

Advanced training takes between six months to one year and is provided by Carolina Canines For Service Trainers.

ARE THE DOGS TRAINED TO PROTECT?

Service dogs are not trained to protect because a dog’s natural protective instincts are more reliable than aggression training.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THE RECIPIENT TO LEARN HOW TO USE THE SERVICE DOG’S TRAINED SKILLS?

The recipient and the dog participate in 3-4 weeks of carefully supervised, very intense “team training” to learn how the dog’s skills can best meet the recipient’s needs and to develop the life-long bond they will experience as they become a working team.

HOW DOES A RECIPIENT TAKE CARE OF THE DOG?

Carolina Canines for Service provides a customized care program for each individual based on their capabilities and resources available to care for the dog. A graduate support program provides for a semi-annual review of the team which includes a comprehensive veterinary report.

HOW LONG CAN THESE DOGS SERVE?

There is no mandatory retirement age. It depends on the type of work the dog does for the individual. For instance, a dog that works with a power wheelchair will have a longer working life than one that physically pulls a manual wheelchair. A retired service dog may live out its life in the recipient’s home or return to our program for care.

IS IT OK TO PET A SERVICE DOG?

Harnessed service animals working in public should not be petted because it could distract from their focus on their partner. However, while a dog is in training with Carolina Canines and identified as such with our red, white, and blue capes, we welcome petting and attention from people in public for socialization and training purposes.

CAN A CAROLINA CANINE GO ANYWHERE A GUIDE DOG CAN GO?

Yes!! As of January 1, 1992, the Americans with Disabilities Act provides public access for service dogs as a reasonable accommodation for a person with a disability. North Carolina statutes grant service dogs in training the same access and full legal rights as a fully certified dog.

WHAT IS THE COST OF RAISING A SERVICE DOG?

The estimated cost of a service dog from breeding through placement is estimated to be between $15,000 and $20,000.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO RAISE A SERVICE DOG?

Carolina Canines are provided FREE OF CHARGE to individuals with disabilities. This is made possible by individual or group donations, corporate donations and grants, and fund raising activities.