Thank you for your interest in receiving a service dog from the Rescue 22 Foundation [R22]. R22 provides fully task trained service dogs to veterans that 1.) demonstrate need as documented by a medical professional and 2.) would benefit from a service dog as a therapeutic tool as part of a comprehensive medical or mental health plan.
Each application is evaluated on its own merits. All information that is requested as part of this application is critical to ensure the best match possible in the selection of your service dog candidate. If you have any difficulty or have any questions for clarification while completing this application, please send an email to angela@rescue22foundation.org and we will schedule an appointment via video conference to assist you.
ALL INFORMATION GATHERED AS PART OF THIS APPLICATION IS KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL AND WILL NEVER BE SHARED WITH A THIRD PARTY.
To qualify for an R22 Service Dog, you must meet the following criteria (other acceptance criteria may be required upon review):
i) Verifiable and documented disability diagnosis by a licensed and certified clinician or medical professional and a letter from a clinician that verifies that you are not a current inpatient client or is 6 months or more post inpatient care for substance abuse, mental health and/or suicidal ideation treatment and finally a statement that you are capable for caring for a dog and participating in handler training.
*Rescue 22 Foundation has a template letter available to send for your clinician/health care provider available and it is recommended that you utilize this template for documentation purposes.
ii) DD214 demonstrating honorable discharge, medical retirement or retirement from military service;
iii) Stable living environment and the ability to financially support a service dog;
*A self-statement of financial stability attesting that you are financially capable of caring for a dog,
including but not limited to the provision of annual veterinary care (at minimum), AAFCO-approved
dog food, required tags and licensure, breed-specific grooming, and any required medications or
medical treatments. For a detailed list see: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/know-true-cost-owning-dog/
AND
*Proof of stable housing for over six consecutive months (e.g., utility bills, house lease).Group housing is not acceptable as proof of stable housing;
iv) Agreement statement from other adult(s) house members to have a dog, if appropriate;
v) Not have a conviction of any crime against animals.