Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions About TGOS
How do I apply for a service dog?
Fill out a form online to receive an application instantly here , or call (610) 554-8725 for an application. Upon receipt of your application, we will contact you for an interview to further assess your needs. Once your application is approved, we will begin the search for your special canine partner.
How much does it cost for a service dog?
Although a service dog costs almost $20,000 to train, The Gift of Sunshine only requests a $2,500.00 fee for one of our dogs. This fee includes a two week (minimum) training period to teach you the skills necessary to work with your dog and a custom-made leather harness. No applicant will be rejected because of their inability to pay our fee for services.
Can I use my own dog?
The Gift of Sunshine will train and certify an individual’s personal dog if the dog meets the standards for certification.
Where does The Gift of Sunshine Get Its Dogs?
Our dogs come from rescue organizations and shelters or are donated by breeders. We test each dog, whether puppy or adult, for very specific temperament qualities. All of our dogs must be friendly with people and other animals. They must also be eager to learn and please. If you would like to donate a dog our online form is here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raising Our Puppies
Who is eligible to raise a puppy?
Any adult, 18 and over who lives in the Southeastern Region of Pennsylvania (SE Penna., Delaware, and New Jersey) can raise a puppy for The Gift of Sunshine.
What type of dog training is expected of a puppy raiser?
Puppy homes are expected to attend regular training sessions (1-2 each month) with our other puppy raisers. These training sessions are conducted by our trainers and are an important part of you and your puppy’s training. You are also expected to socialize your pup in many different public places. You will be provided with a harness and ID tag so you can take your puppy into public places.
Do I need to have any dog training experience?
No, our professional trainers are there to guide and support you in your puppy raising efforts.
Do I participate in advanced training?
Yes, our professional trainers will work with you on some of the advanced training techniques your puppy might need. We’ll show you how and what your puppy needs to learn (turn off light switches, open doors, push buttons, retrieve objects, etc.) and you should practice these behaviors with your puppy at home.
How does veterinary care work?
All pups and dogs in training must go to a TGOS vet, unless prior arrangements have been made.
Do I pay for veterinary care?
Since TGOS is a relatively new organization, we do not have the needed funds allocated to pay for all it’s puppies in training. If you choose to pay for the veterinary care, all expenses related to raising a puppy are fully tax deductible to you. However, if you cannot afford to pay for the costs associated with raising a pup, TGOS may, in some cases, cover the costs.
What if I already have a pet dog or other pets in the house?
You can still raise a puppy. It’s good for a puppy to have exposure to other dogs and pets. Many of the people on our waiting list have other pets living with them.
Will my puppy be spayed/neutered while I’m raising him/her?
Yes, we spay/neuter all of our dogs in training at the appropriate time (usually around 6 months of age).
What if my puppy does not become a service dog?
Sometimes puppies in our program cannot be placed as service dogs due to health issues or for behavioral reasons. As the puppy raiser, you may be asked if you would like to keep the dog as a pet. If not, TGOS will adopt the dog to a family that is “just right” for him/her. Click here to learn about our Adopt-A-Pet program online, or call (610) 554-8725 for an application.
Can we take our puppies to malls and other public places?
Yes, our puppies and other service dogs in training are allowed in public places. We encourage you to get your puppy used to a variety of different public places and social situations.