Service Dog Program
Second chances for shelter dogs. Life-changing support for special needs children.
Creating Life-Changing Partnerships
Our Service Dog Program brings together two things that need each other: shelter dogs looking for purpose and special needs children who could benefit from a four-legged companion.
We partner with local shelters to identify dogs with the right temperament for service work—calm, trainable, and gentle. These dogs are then trained to support children with autism, developmental disabilities, and other special needs.
The result? A bond that transforms both lives. Children gain a loyal companion who helps them navigate the world more safely and confidently. Dogs find their forever home and a meaningful purpose.
How Service Dogs Help
A well-trained service dog can provide support in many areas of daily life.
Safety & Security
Service dogs can be trained for tethering to prevent elopement, alerting to dangers, and providing a calming presence in stressful situations.
Emotional Support
The unconditional love of a service dog provides emotional regulation, reduces anxiety, and offers comfort during overwhelming moments.
Independence
With a service dog's support, children can navigate the world more independently, building confidence and life skills.
Social Connection
Dogs are natural social bridges. A service dog can help children connect with peers and community members.
Our Process
Dog Selection
We work with local shelters to identify dogs with the right temperament for service work—calm, trainable, good with children, and eager to please.
Professional Training
Selected dogs undergo comprehensive training tailored to the needs of special needs children, including obedience, task-specific skills, and public access training.
Child-Dog Matching
We carefully match each trained dog with a child based on the child's specific needs, the dog's personality, and the family's lifestyle. The right match is everything.
Family Training
Families receive comprehensive training on working with their service dog, reinforcing commands, and integrating the dog into daily life.
Ongoing Support
Our relationship doesn't end at placement. We provide ongoing support, follow-up training, and resources to ensure the partnership thrives.
Rescuing Dogs, Changing Lives
Every dog in our program comes from a local shelter. We believe that dogs who have been given a second chance often become the most devoted companions. When you support our Service Dog Program, you're helping save two lives at once.
"There are people that can help guide us to keep our children safe, secure, and happy. This is why I founded Fundamentally Awesome."
— Alicea Townsend, Founder
Interested in a Service Dog?
Contact us to learn more about our program and start the application process.