Breeding

Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are the breeds KSDS utilizes.  These breeds have been selected because of their willingness to work and strength in conformation.  KSDS assistance dogs are the product of a selective breeding program that starts with the acquisition of top quality dogs. In order to produce puppies with stable temperaments, KSDS breeding stock is evaluated on their levels of sensitivity, tolerance and trainability.

Puppy Raising

Puppy raisers are committed to raising the puppy during the all-important first year of training; however, their responsibilities continue until the puppies are approximately 18-24 months of age.  First-time puppy raisers are required to attend a puppy class in Washington, Kansas before picking up their puppy. Puppy raisers are provided with a training manual and cape. During the course of their time with the dogs, puppy raisers keep and send in monthly reports concerning the puppy’s development, health and mastery of skills. KSDS currently has puppy raisers in 10 states.

Advanced Training

Just as children complete the important years of their K-12 education and move on to college, KSDS puppies follow the same path.  When the puppy is approximately 18-24 months of age, they return to Washington, Kansas to complete their formal training. Part of the advanced training is done at the Topeka Correctional Facility under the supervision of KSDS trainers.  Prior to the formal training, KSDS Instructors evaluate and place dogs into one of the three programs: guide, service or social.

Released Dogs

Some dogs are smart enough to be assistance dogs, but just weren’t meant to be working dogs. Their hips and eyes have to be just perfect. They also can’t have allergies. If they cannot meet the stringent health requirements, these dogs are released from the program. Most of the time, the puppy raiser is contacted and may choose to adopt the dog.  Many times, these dogs continue in a career that is easier on them physically such as READ dogs, therapy dogs or are used to help train other puppies in training. If the puppy raiser is unable or chooses not to take the released dog back, KSDS has an adoption program that matches adoptive families to the released puppy in much the same way they match assistance dogs with their future partners. Apply for a career change dog here.

Team Training

Team training is where the dog is matched with their future partner.  Classes are held to train the team to work together.  During this time the student learns the commands, training techniques, and canine care needed to produce safe and happy working teams. Guide dog team training lasts three weeks. Service dog training lasts two weeks and Social dog training lasts one week. All team training takes place at KSDS in Washington, Kansas. At the end of team training is a graduation. KSDS puppy raisers have the privilege to attend graduation and meet the graduate who was matched with the puppy they raised. Graduation is a great time of celebration for all and includes a tour of the Canine Housing Unit and Training Facility.

Working Team

After graduation, the team is a true working partnership. Teams become extremely close. They learn to rely on each other and begin to work as one. Many times graduates and puppy raisers keep in contact with one another and develop a life-long friendship as well. KSDS also provides follow-up training should the team have any questions. Assistance dogs are expected to work for eight to ten years. KSDS has working teams in 30 states.

Retirement

A time comes when bones and muscles become old and frail and it gets harder and harder for a dog to get around. After a dog has faithfully served its partner for eight to ten years, it’s time for retirement. When it is time for their canine partner to retire, the graduate gets the first option to take their beloved companion into their home as a pet. If it is not possible for the team member to take their assistance dog back, the puppy raiser may be called to adopt the dog. If the original puppy raiser cannot adopt the retiring dog, then the retiree gets placed into the KSDS adoption program. These dogs then get to spend the rest of their days enjoying life and being adored.  These retired dogs make wonderful companions for senior citizens looking for companionship.