A Service Dog is individually trained to meet the needs of its handler, both in the home and in the community.  A service dog is trained to perform a minimum of two custom tasks for a person with a disability.  This dog will receive a service dog vest and will pass THE ADA obedience test. Special program requirements must be met to receive a VIP Service Dog Foundation vest and V.I.P.  patch.  Each dog goes through an extensive assessment evaluation for temperament. All dogs complete basic obedience skills.  After Basic Obedience, dogs move into specialized training, opening doors, retrieving dropped items, pulling a wheelchair, turning on lights, alerting to the doorbell/phones, and bracing.

Service Dog Is individually trained to meet the needs of its handler, both in the home and in the community. Anyone under the age of 10 requires an adult handler. Requirement exception will be made on a case-to-case evaluation. No placement for anyone under the age of 8.

SKILLED COMPANION DOG: Is trained in basic obedience skills and some custom tasks to assist a client with a disability. The dog is not granted public access and is trained to assist the client only in the home.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT DOG is trained basic obedience and comfort tasks. 

*Please note that VIP serves individuals covering a wide range of abilities. However, VIP does NOT train or place dogs for the following: to guide or work for the blind, to do seizure/ diabetic, medical alerts and rescue, or to respond aggressively (ADA violation, to provide personal protection)

It is important to remember that although assistance dogs are highly trained in many commands, they are not machines. A VIP dog cannot take responsibility for the safety of the recipient.