Not every dog is destined to become a service dog, and that’s perfectly okay. Sometimes, the rigorous training proves to be too challenging, or a dog’s temperament is better suited for a different kind of life. But what happens to these aspiring service dogs who don’t quite make the cut? The wonderful news is that many of them become available for adoption, offering a unique opportunity to provide a loving home to a well-trained canine companion. So, Can You Adopt Failed Guide Dogs? Absolutely! They are often called “career change dogs,” and they can make wonderful pets.
Adopting a career change dog is a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to understand the process and what to expect. This article will explore the reasons why some dogs don’t complete service dog training, how to adopt a career change dog, and whether it’s the right decision for you.
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Why Do Some Dogs “Fail” Guide Dog Training?
It’s important to understand that when a dog doesn’t complete guide dog training, it’s not a reflection of their intelligence or lovability. It simply means their skills or personality are better suited for a different role. There are two primary categories of reasons why a dog might not become a guide dog: health-related and behavior-related.
Health-related reasons can include:
- Eye issues: Cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can impair a dog’s vision, making it unsafe for them to guide someone.
- Joint problems: Hip or elbow dysplasia can cause pain and mobility issues, preventing a dog from performing the physical tasks required of a guide dog.
- Allergies: Severe food or environmental allergies can be difficult to manage and can impact a dog’s overall well-being and ability to focus on their work.
Behavior-related reasons can include:
- High energy levels: Guide dogs need to remain calm and focused in various environments. Dogs with excessive energy might find it challenging to settle down and concentrate on their tasks.
- Overly friendly demeanor: While friendliness is a positive trait, guide dogs need to maintain a professional demeanor and avoid being distracted by strangers.
- Leash reactivity: Guide dogs need to walk calmly and reliably on a leash. Difficulties with leash manners can make it challenging for them to guide someone safely.
Fortunately, these characteristics that might prevent a dog from becoming a guide dog often make them wonderful pets!
How to Adopt a Failed Guide Dog
Several reputable organizations specialize in placing career change dogs in loving homes. These organizations invest significant resources in training and caring for their dogs, so they want to ensure they find the perfect match.
Some of the most well-known guide dog organizations with adoption programs include:
- Guide Dogs for the Blind: (https://www.guidedogs.com/)
- Guide Dogs of America: (https://www.guidedogsofamerica.org/)
- Freedom Service Dogs of America: (https://freedomservicedogs.org/)
- Service Dogs Inc.: (https://www.servicedogs.org/)
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The Adoption Process: What to Expect
Adopting a career change dog typically involves a more extensive application process than adopting from a local shelter. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
- Application: You’ll need to complete a detailed application form that asks about your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and why you’re interested in adopting a career change dog.
- Interview: The organization will likely conduct an interview to get to know you better and assess whether you’re a good fit for one of their dogs.
- Home Visit: A representative from the organization may visit your home to ensure it’s a safe and suitable environment for a dog.
- Waiting List: Due to the high demand for career change dogs, you’ll likely be placed on a waiting list. The wait time can vary from several months to a year or more.
- Matching: When a dog becomes available that seems like a good match for you, the organization will contact you and arrange a meeting.
- Adoption Fee: Most organizations charge an adoption fee to help cover the costs of training and caring for their dogs.
What is the Cost of Adopting a Career Change Dog?
The adoption fees for career change dogs can range from $0 to $1,000 or more. The higher fees reflect the significant investment these organizations make in their dogs’ training, healthcare, and socialization.
Is Adopting a Career Change Dog Right for You?
Adopting a career change dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s essential to consider whether it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and expectations.
Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Patience is key: Be prepared for a potentially long waiting list.
- Costs: Adoption fees can be higher than those at local shelters. Also budget for food, vet care, toys and other pet supplies.
- Breed limitations: Guide dog organizations primarily work with specific breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. If you have your heart set on a different breed, you might have better luck with a breed-specific rescue.
- Pre-trained: While career change dogs have received extensive training, they still need ongoing training and socialization in their new homes.
- Activity Level: Even though they didn’t become guide dogs, these dogs often enjoy having a job to do. Consider activities such as playing fetch or participating in dog sports.
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Ready to Get Started?
If you’re considering adopting a career change dog, start researching different organizations and reviewing their adoption requirements. Prepare to be patient and thorough in your application process. With a little time and effort, you can provide a loving home to a deserving dog and gain a wonderful companion. Remember to properly prepare for a new dog before adopting.
