How to get a service dog through the VA

Steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Check if you may qualify

   You need a vision, hearing, or major mobility problem. For a mental health service dog, the mental health condition must be the main cause of the mobility problem, and a service dog must be the best treatment for you.

2. 2

   Step 2: Ask your VA provider

   For hearing, guide, or mobility dogs, ask your VA clinical provider. For a mental health mobility dog, ask your VA mental health provider. They also look at whether you can care for a dog.

3. 3

   Step 3: Wait for the prosthetics office decision

   Your provider sends the request to your local VA Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS). That office tells you if you are approved.

4. 4

   Step 4: Get the dog from an accredited program

   The dog must come from a program accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). Keep the dog’s completion certificate.

5. 5

   Step 5: Know what the VA pays for

   The VA pays for vet insurance for one dog, needed treatment and prescriptions, required gear and repairs, and approved travel to get the dog. It does not pay for food, grooming, boarding, license tags, or over-the-counter medicine.

Related guides

• Service dog or emotional support animal: what is the difference?
• How to get an emotional support animal letter (and avoid scams)