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. We do this in a few different ways:

Option 1: 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 get started and willing to raise a puppy with guidance. It also allows us to prepare dogs in a way that sets them—and you—up for long-term success.

Option 2: Adopt a Dog We’ve Pre-Evaluated

We work with local shelters and rescues to identify dogs with the right temperament, size, and age for service work. These dogs are evaluated by our team and, if appropriate, offered to people on the wait list. Once adopted, the dog may need some foundational training before beginning service dog work.

Note: If you’ve found a dog on your own—from a shelter or breeder—please contact us before adopting. Not every dog is suited for service work, and we’re happy to advise you before you commit.

Option 3: Wait for a Foster to Raise 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 by a foster. Once the dog is old enough and passes its assessment, you will adopt it and enter the program.

  • Timeline depends on availability of fosters and the dog’s progress

  • This is the slowest of the three options, but might be best for you

Important Notes

  • All service dog training program requirements and fees apply to each option. For purpose bred puppies, 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. There will be a home visit to assess this and ensure success.

  • Matches are made based on your needs and the dog’s potential to succeed.

  • Wait times vary significantly depending on which path you choose.

Application Process

  1. Complete the Matching Program Application (above) and the financial aid form, if needed.

  2. 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.