FSD Skilled Companions

At Freedom Service Dogs, we believe dogs can make a profound difference in people’s daily lives.

 

We purposefully place each dog where it can have the greatest impact, where both human and dog benefit from a lasting partnership. Fewer than half of our puppies will grow up to meet the strict criteria necessary to graduate as service dogs or professional therapy dogs. Yet, these dogs have the ability to make a profound difference. That’s why we have developed a new program called FSD Skilled Companion Dogs.

As the name suggests, FSD Skilled Companion dogs are ideally suited to be a human’s best friend and lifelong companion. They are all well-behaved and trained but are not specialized in a particular skill, nor do they have public access like service dogs. Because of their friendly disposition, we place our skilled companion dogs with veterans, first responders, active-duty military and their families, and Gold Star families to provide love, comfort, and friendship. FSD Skilled Companion dogs are offered to individuals and their families for a suggested donation to Freedom Service Dogs in support of our mission.

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Skilled Companion dogs:

  • Are provided for veterans, first responders, active-duty military and their families, and Gold Star families.
  • Are bred for optimal health and temperament.
  • Have undergone months of basic training to establish appropriate house manners and knowledge of basic cues.
  • Are not trained to perform specialized tasks.
  • May have more advanced training and the ability to help around the home by retrieving dropped items, opening drawers, and more.
  • Do not have public access like service dogs.
  • Are skilled at providing loving comfort and joy to their families.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

PLEASE NOTE: Due to high demand, inquiries for Skilled Companion Dogs are closed until further notice.

Freedom Service Dogs is committed to serving our clients in the best way possible. While it is a difficult decision to make, temporarily pausing new applications allows us to focus on providing the highest quality training and support to the clients who have already completed the application process and are on our waiting list.

We know how meaningful these life-changing dogs are and truly appreciate your patience and understanding. Please check back periodically for updates on when inquiries will reopen. While our applications are closed, you may wish to explore other Assistance Dogs International (ADI)–accredited organizations as an additional resource.

Questions about the FSD Skilled Companion Dogs program?

Contact us at 303-922-6231 at [email protected].