Tucson Matching Program
If you are in the Tucson area and don’t have a suitable dog of your own, Ability Dogs may be able to match you with a potential service dog puppy. We do this in a few different ways:
Option 1: Wait for our Foster Program to Raise and Train Your Dog
If you’re not able to foster a puppy, you can join the waitlist to be matched with a dog that is currently being raised and trained by a foster. Once the dog is old enough you can adopt it and continue training before entering the program.
Option 2: Foster Your Future Service Dog
The fastest way to be matched is to foster a carefully selected 8-week-old puppy and raise it until it’s ready to begin formal training. This option is ideal for those who are ready to start now and are open to raising a puppy.
Weekly one-hour group classes at our training center
Ongoing support from our certified instructors
When the dog passes its service dog readiness assessment, you adopt it and formally enter the training program
This option is ideal for people eager to raise a puppy from a young age with guidance. It also allows us to prepare dogs in a way that sets them (and you) up for long-term success.
Important Notes
All service dog training program requirements and fees apply to each option. For all dogs, an additional purchase fee applies. Financial assistance may be available.
Having another dog at home is fine as long as they’re dog-friendly and don’t interfere with training.
For all applicants, there will be a home visit to ensure that your space is appropriate.
Matches are made based on your needs and the dog’s potential to succeed.
Application Process
Complete the Matching Program Application (above) and the financial aid form, if needed.
Submit the appropriate Medical Statement(s):
Physician Statement – for mobility, hearing, or diabetic alert, and other physical tasks
Mental Health Report – for psychiatric service dogs
Submit both if applicable.
Then send forms to:
Ability Dogs of Arizona
75 South Montego Drive
Tucson, AZ 85710
Or email to: contact@abilitydogsaz.org
We’ll contact you to schedule a consultation after reviewing your forms.