Frequently Asked Questions...

How do I enrol?

Fill in the application form to tell us about you and your dog. If we can help, you'll be invited to book a compatibility interview where we'll assess your suitability for the programme.

Is there a waitlist to join?

Numbers are strictly limited on each intake so that we can ensure the very best support. Places are prioritised on a first come, first served basis but do take into account the individual needs of the applicant.

*Do you accept all breeds?

Yes, we accept all breeds (apart from those on the Banned Breeds List UK) as long as they are healthy and this can be proven with a vet health check. For more information please see the Gov.uk website.

Do you accept unneutered dogs?

Yes, we accept both neutered and unneutered dogs. PAWS will never recommend spaying or castrating your dog unless there is a clear medical or behavioural need - and this should be discussed with a qualified Dog Trainer and with your vet to ensure that the benefits outweigh the risks.

Do you accept raw fed dogs?

Yes, raw fed dogs are accepted onto the programme.

At what age can my dog begin training?

We accept puppies from 8 weeks of age onto the programme. The earlier training is started, the better the outcome. Your dog will need to be a minimum of 18 months old to take their Public Access test, but most dogs will take two years or more to complete the training to the required level for Public Access.

How long does it take to train an Assistance Dog?

You should expect the entire training process to take up to two years, depending on your dog's level of training when they started.

For how long will I be supported by PAWS Assistance Dogs?

The PAWS programme will support you for a full two years, including weekly live mentor sessions.

Can anyone utilise an Assistance Dog?

A handler must qualify as disabled under the Equality Act 2010 to utilise an Assistance Dog. This means that their disability must significantly impair their capacity to perform typical daily activities with long-term adverse effects. We do not discriminate and simply require a letter from your doctor or mental health professional to confirm the diagnosis before admittance to the programme.

Are there any conditions not suitable for the programme?

PAWS Assistance Dogs support a wide variety of diagnosed conditions. These include, but are not limited to: physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy, brain or spinal injuries, cancer diagnosis, stroke, or for wheelchair users; and psychiatric and neurological support, including depression, anxiety, autism, ADHD, and PTSD. At the moment, we do not support medical detection or guiding/hearing.

Do I need to be in the UK?

Currently our Programme is only suitable for those living in the UK. Please note that you will need to travel with your dog to attend in-person assessments, these are held at various locations around the UK and you can choose the date and location you'd like to attend.

How will I know if my dog is suitable?

We provide a thorough telephone Temperament Assessment, utilising video if necessary, to assess your dog's temperament and potential prior to offering a space. Throughout the programme, you'll also undertake regular in-person assessments with experienced Trainers to ensure you and your dog are on the right track. If there are any concerns over your dog's temperament and behaviour at any stage, we may refer you to a local trainer for additional support.

Will I need specific insurance for my dog?

Your dog will have Public Liability Insurance that specifically covers them to work as an Assistance Dog. We talk about specific providers that we have used and recommend in the programme.

Can you certify my dog to go into public places?

There is no 'official certification' of Assistance Dogs in the UK, therefore, it is not possible for PAWS (or any other charity or organisation) to officially certify an Assistance Dog. However, your dog can take a Public Access Test in order to gain access to public spaces.

Do I have to take the Public Access test?

Public access tests are optional. Some of our Assistance Dog partnerships simply wish for their dog to perform tasks at home and don't require access.

Will my dog become a registered Assistance Dog?

Please note that there is no official registration or certification for Assistance Dogs in the UK. You and your dog will be a member of PAWS only and printed certificates provided to show only the level of training completed on the programme. If your dog mitigates your disability, you are covered by the Equality Act 2010.

Does PAWS support with access issues?

We can provide letters confirming your enrolment on the Programme and the level of training your dog has achieved.

Does every dog make it as an Assistance Dog?

Not all dogs are suitable to become Assistance Dogs. Additionally, not every partnership will achieve the level of training required to pass all of the assessments, however, assessments are not required by law and your dog can still assist you with tasks and support at home. The Public Access test is optional and you may choose not to take this element of the programme.

Are you an ADI organisation?

Assistance Dogs International, Inc. (ADI) is a worldwide coalition of non-profit programs that train and place Assistance Dogs. We are not a member of ADI, but we do subscribe to their ethos and values and train to the highest standards.

Do you provide an Assistance Dog jacket?

Please note that there is no 'official' Assistance Dog jacket, nor official Assistance Dog registration or certification. All partnerships will receive a PAWS logo Assistance Dog jacket when they graduate from the programme, to recognise that they have trained with PAWS. Additionally, PAWS 'in training' jackets can be purchased following successful passing of our level two in-person assessment. Please note that jackets are not a legal requirement.