Training of a service dog begins on day one. At about three weeks of age staff and volunteers dedicated to socializing and preparing these young pups to become loving and loyal service companions.

Some of these young service dogs in training are selected to participate in the Stellar Acres Service Dog program where their temperament and physical characteristics make them ideal service dog candidates. It can cost $35,000 to fully train a service dog that will be placed with a veteran or other person in need.

Selecting the best dogs that are bred and fostered to be socially responsive and engaging is key. The best dogs make our mission successful. But keep in mind, Service Members affected by PTSD often isolate and resist interaction with others. Purpose-bred traits of these dogs make it very difficult for our patients to isolate or resist the safe relationships offered by loving and non-judgmental companions. As these dogs mature and acquire service dog skills, Stellar Acres Service Dogs staff will evaluate their progress and finalize training. Select dogs will be placed at no cost with a veteran or other person with disabilities while others will go on to graduate as specialist dogs.