We train and provide highly skilled, custom-trained service dogs to Veterans with service-connected PTSD, MST, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and mobility limitations and moral injury—at no cost to the recipient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers that help you understand, apply, and get involved.
Our program is exclusively for Veterans. If you’re not a Veteran, we recommend visiting Assistance Dogs International to find a provider that fits your needs.
We’re based in Wilmington, North Carolina, but we serve Veterans across the United States.
We’re supported through individual donations, corporate sponsors, grants, fundraising events, and community partnerships.
Start by completing our prescreening questionnaire. Our team will follow up with next steps.
Nothing. Canines for Service does not charge or require fundraising from the Veterans we serve.
The average wait is about two years. We prioritize matches based on the needs of each Veteran, not a first-come, first-serve basis.
No. We do not train personal pets to become service dogs.
We source dogs through the ADI Breeding Co-Op, reputable breeders. All dogs are evaluated for health, temperament, and trainability.
We typically work with Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers. Most dogs weigh 60–90 pounds as adults.
No. Our team carefully matches each Veteran with the dog that best fits their personality, lifestyle, and specific needs.
Visit our Ways to Volunteer page to explore current opportunities—from fostering dogs to helping with events.
Not at all! We offer a variety of roles for all skill levels and backgrounds.
Yes, fostering is a vital part of our program. Learn more on our Ways to Volunteer page.
Yes. Volunteers must be 18+ or accompanied by a parent or guardian. Specific roles may have additional requirements.
Submit a Volunteer interest form, and our team will be in touch with orientation details.
Fosters provide loving homes and early socialization for dogs during critical stages of their development. It’s one of the most impactful ways to support our mission.
Not typically. Fosters are part of the dog’s journey toward becoming a service dog or transitioning into another career path. Adoption decisions for career-change dogs are made by Canines for Service or our partners, based on what’s best for the dog’s long-term wellbeing.
Some dogs are “career-changed” into other roles, like therapy, companion, or pet homes, when service work isn’t the right fit. These decisions are made after expert evaluation, always with the dog’s best interest in mind.
While we understand the emotional connection fosters build, we can’t guarantee ongoing updates. Many dogs continue training through other stages or with partners.
Visit our Ways to Volunteer page to learn more and submit an interest form. Our team will guide you through next steps and training.
You can make a one-time or monthly gift securely here. We also accept planned giving, in-kind donations, vehicle donations, and more. Visit our Ways to Give page to learn more.
Yes. Canines for Service is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and your gift is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Absolutely. Tribute gifts are a meaningful way to celebrate a loved one. You can do this during the donation process.
Yes. We maintain Amazon and Chewy wish lists and accept new or gently used supplies. Visit our Ways to Give page for details.
Visit our Sponsors & Partners page or download our [Sponsorship Packet PDF] to learn more. You can also contact us directly.
Want to Be Part of
Our Mission?
Whether you’re interested in volunteering, joining our team, or sponsoring our work, there are many ways to make a difference. Together, we can ensure that every Veteran who needs a service dog has a partner by their side—and a team behind them.
