How to Certify Your Service Dog?
You can get certified after finishing our training programs and passing Public Access Testing.
You can personally train your service dog without needing federal certification, following ADA standards. However, some states may have their own registration rules, and it's essential to check your state's regulations. Contact Medical Mutts to learn more!
Service Dog Certifications and the ADA: What You Need to Know
Certification is not required by the ADA for service dogs. Be cautious of websites selling service dog vests and IDs without proper verification, as there's no national service dog registry or official certifying organization under federal law. These sites are businesses selling gear, not legitimate organizations. The ADA does not recognize online certification or registration documents as proof of a service animal.
While the ADA doesn't mandate certification, having it can help prove your dog is a service dog. Medical Mutts can provide certification, but your dog must meet our training standards and complete the outlined process below.
Certification Requirements for Your Service Dog through Medical Mutts
-
Assessment and Enrollment: Schedule a $120 assessment with our trainer. We'll evaluate your dog's temperament, and training, and discuss your disability and prior training. This helps us plan your customized training and ensures your dog is a good candidate to be a service dog.
-
Enroll in one of our training programs: Choose from Board and Train, Private Coaching, or Group Class options. Our coaching training programs are available online, making them accessible from anywhere. To qualify for certification with Medical Mutts, you'll need to provide:
-
Proof of disability.
-
Minimum 6 months of coaching.
-
Demonstration of three trained tasks directly related to your disability.
-
-
In-Person Public Access Test (PAT): Once you're prepared and your dog is at least 18 months old, you'll need to meet us in Indianapolis, Indiana, for the PAT. The initial PAT includes a Medical Mutts official service dog vest, an ID, a certification letter confirming your service dog team status, meeting ADA requirements, and follow-up communication with our trainers (at least once a month for the first year). The cost for the first PAT is $300. Follow-up and yearly recertification are required to maintain certification. Subsequent PATs are $120.