By Sheri Soltes, Founder & President

Applying to THSD for a Hearing or Service Dog is easier than ever. Simply go to our website www.servicedogs.org and click on the “Apply for a Dog” tab at the top of the home page. You can even fill out the main part of the application and submit it online.

Our application fee has not changed in 20 years! It’s still only $25! No fees for equipment, training or even the dog. Donations support the $17,500 cost of training – it’s free to you!

Once you get your paperwork in, we invite you to attend an Applicant Orientation Day at our training center in Dripping Springs, near Austin. You’ll learn more about living with a Hearing or Service Dog, participate in training sessions with the staff and our dogs and tell us more about your needs during your interview.

January Service Dog Class practices walking with their new dogs.

THSD still offers the extensive personalized service for which we’ve always been known. When matching you with a dog, we carefully consider your preferences, lifestyle and needs. Next, you’ll attend a five day class at the training center to learn how to work with your new best friend.

Then, we move the dog into your home to begin In-home Training. For 13 weeks, a Trainer will visit you weekly to work with you and your new Hearing or Service Dog in private sessions tailored especially for you. You’ll advance to working in public with your dog, including your office, favorite restaurants and even the mall.

Once you graduate, THSD will still be there to support you for the lifetime of the dog. We’re always a phone call or email away whenever you have questions or new training challenges.

We welcome applications for Hearing and Service Dogs. Thanks to our growth, the wait time is shorter than ever. Apply today!