Could the Self-Determination Program cover a service animal?

Regional Center might not pay for a service animal, but it can help with some of the costs of food, grooming, and healthcare for service dogs. Elizabeth Spencer, Director of the Family Resources and Empowerment Center at LA’s Westside Regional Center, says to email your case manager with your request and explain the situation. You’ll likely need to write a letter explaining why your child benefits from the service dog, and provide a letter from a physician that explains how the dog helps your child. If it gets turned down, you can appeal (something you may have to do more than once). The same funding route applies for Regional Center clients in the Self-Determination Program (SDP) who want help paying for a service dog.

For more information, see our full article The Amazing, Incredible Service Dog.