The cost of training a service dog is usually around $30,000 (closer to $45,000 for a guide dog). Most agencies ask that clients raise a portion of this amount upfront or at some point during the process, or that they participate in a “pay-it-forward” fundraising campaign for the organization. You can obtain service dogs from nonprofit or for-profit organizations, but it’s often easier to raise funds when working with a nonprofit.
When an agency lists their dogs as “no cost to the recipient,” this means they have received donations for the funding. These agencies have a person or team of people doing the fundraising, which can often mean long wait times. Agencies that ask clients to pay for part of the costs upfront encourage their clients to do this through fundraising, and they offer assistance and tools for this as well. Some organizations will also work with clients to write grants and seek financial assistance.
Clients are usually responsible for their transportation to and from the training center, their meals during the training period, and the cost of staying in a hotel if needed. 4 Paws for Ability estimates that it costs about $1,500 to $2,000 per year to maintain a service dog, or about $100 per month for veterinary care, food, and equipment.
For more information, see our full article The Amazing, Incredible Service Dog.
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