This program utilizes dogs, which have been either picked up by the shelter or relinquished by their owners, that have the physical characteristics and temperament required to be a 24/7 working companion for a veteran with a physical handicap due to serving in the military. We believe this best serves both a veteran as well as an abandoned dog in need of a new permanent home as we match them together to develop a lifelong relationship beneficial to both. As dogs come into the shelter, they are screened to see if they can handle the rigors of Service Dog work. If so, they are placed into this program rather than simply going on the "adoption block". These dogs are then given a basic obedience training, (this includes a basic Service Dog training of being able to go into stores, restaurants, etc) and fostered for us by caring foster homes throughout the area. As we receive a request from a veteran who is looking for a Service Dog, we give them a list of the dogs we have available and discuss with veteran the benefits and drawbacks of each one. We then allow him or her to meet each of the dogs they have shown an interest in and choose which dog they want to be theirs. The veteran and the dog are then moved to the Opportunity Inc. Complex to live together where they can be supervised and trained together, the veteran in how to teach and work with his or her new companion, and the dog to do the specific tasks the veteran may need. We do not set a time limit on the veteran or the dog. As each circumstance is different, so is the training and guidance needed to be sure that when the veteran and the dog leave, they are working together as a team, each one for each other.
In an extension to the program, disabled veterans may also choose to enroll in one of our Intern Programs if they would like to pursue a career in an animal welfare related field. Disabled vets may enroll in a 1 or 2 year training program sponsored by the SPCA in Shelter Management. The 1 year program requires the vet to work at the shelter as an Intern. Upon completion, the veteran will receive certification in all aspects of starting and operating an animal shelter such as ours in other areas of the state or country. The 2 year program will also include an Associates degree from the University of Arkansas in Business Management. More info on our Intern Programs may be found by clicking here.
The Opportunity Inc. Complex can house a veteran and their dog in our one of the mobile homes we have at the complex for that purpose. This mobile home is shared with our Training Director so that training problems can be addressed any time. This mobile home was provided by Boonstra Mobile Homes in Flippin. Cost for a veteran to live with his new dog in this mobile home is $350 a month which helps to pay for utilities used and transportation costs (getting them back and forth to town for supplies as well as for advanced training, transportation daily to and from college if participating in an Intern Program, etc.)
Pell Grant arrangements can be made to assist in college tuition for each vet in the 2 year Shelter Management program. The SPCA pays for all costs over the basic $350 a month sponsorship.
If you are a Disabled Veteran eligible for VA benefits, Please read the following information provided by the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners:
For any veteran currently using a service dog or interested in obtaining a service dog, we encourage you to enroll in your local VA Medical Center and be reviewed by a clinician (Physiatrist, Spinal Cord Injury, Audiology, etc.) for the suitability of your current or proposed dog. If you qualify for a service dog per VA criteria, that clinician will work with the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service to have your dog approved and entered into your record. Once on your record, the VA will pay for veterinary costs and hardware such as harnesses or backpacks. Veterinary costs cover prescribed medications (but not over-the-counter medication), sedated dental cleanings, annual check-ups, vaccinations, and more. VA will not cover things such as grooming, boarding, or non-prescription food.
For more information, please visit the following websites:
http://www.prosthetics.va.gov
http://www1.va.gov/health/ServiceandGuideDogs.asp
What about qualifying the dog for the VA and the forms? We will be happy to help you with any forms or other things you may to get a dog set up with the VA.
How does the SPCA assist with paying for your new dog? This is a joint venture. It takes both you and us. You set up appointments with local stores and merchants in your area. Once this is done and you have dates and times scheduled, we will come to wherever you are with our complete Service Dog information booth. We will provide the public in your area with pamphlets and other information, as well as do Service Dog Demonstrations throughout the day and help you in asking for donations from the people in your area to help pay for your dog. We do not charge any extra to do this. All money gained throughout the day goes directly towards paying for your dog.
WANT TO KNOW IF YOU QUALIFY OR IF WE CAN HELP YOU WITH A DOG OF YOUR OWN? CLICK HERE.
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For more information or to apply for the Service Pets for Vets program, call the shelter @ 870-453-7249
If your business or family can assist a returning veteran with the cost or by allowing a veteran to stay in your home during the training period or Internship, please call the SPCA office at 870-453-7249. Corporate sponsorships needed.
Sponsorships are tax deductible and receipts are always provided for tax purposes.
