Service Dogs

Saint Francis has placed many professionally trained service dogs to assist people with a wide range of disabilities, including autism, cerebral palsy, joint and/or muscular diseases, multiple sclerosis, brain injury, paralysis, Parkinsons, rheumatoid arthritis, and many other disabling conditions.  A service dog is especially trained to help people with severe ambulatory and other physical disabilities. A dog can be trained to open and close doors, retrieve dropped objects, pull wheelchair, turn off lights and obtain food from the refrigerator. A service dog also gives emotional support.



It takes two years and costs up to $25,000 to train one service dog. Saint Francis absorbs this cost and does not charge for service dogs.  For eligibility requirements to apply for a dog, visit the website.