Veteran Applications

Serving Those Who Keep Us Free

We train Service Dogs for Veterans & Wounded Warriors with service-connected PTSD, MST, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and mobility impairments. We do not train Guide Dogs or Hearing Dogs, and can not provide “hypoallergenic dogs”.

Because Mutts With A Mission is accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI), Veterans and their Service Dogs are entitled to full veterinary care benefits from the VA. This privilege is not afforded to Service Dogs from other organizations.

Applicant Criteria

  • Honorable Discharge

  • Verifiable PTSD, MST, TBI, or mobility disability

    • Disability MUST have been incurred during your time of service and be service-connected.

  • No convictions of any crimes against animals or types of abuse

  • Stable living environment

  • Free of substance abuse. Using Marijuana, smoking, and vaping is not allowed in the dog’s environment.

  • For all psychiatric disabilities, individuals must be actively participating in mental health treatment. Medication appointments are not included.

  • DD 214 (Member 4 copy)

  • $300 Application Fee

Application process

  1. 31 May: Completed applications due. No late applications will be considered.

  2. 1 June - 31 July: Applications will be reviewed and interviews will be set up for qualifying applicants.

  3. August: Interviewed applicants will be notified of the selection committee’s decision.

    (There are three types of decisions: unconditional acceptance, conditional acceptance, or denial)

  4. Applicants placed on the wait list will be required to complete quarterly check-ins to confirm interest and update health information every 6 months.

    Currently, our wait list is roughly 2 years from the point of acceptance. Our commitment is to produce solid partnerships between our highly skilled dogs and their recipients.

VETERAN SERVICE DOG APPLICATION

Click the button above to begin your application.

Please read the Heroes Introduction, followed by the application criteria, requirements, and outline of what to expect.

We cannot review an incomplete application. You will be able to save your progress and resume the application later.

The application must be submitted no later than May 31, 2026.

In addition to completing the application, you will also need to upload the requirements listed. It will help to have them ready for upload.

  • 2 Recommendation Letters

  • Current Photo

  • YouTube Video made accessible to anyone with the link of your home and yard

  • Copy of Driver's License

  • DD-214 (Member 4 Copy) or, if on active duty your Commanding Officer Letter

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Please note we DO NOT place Service or Facility Dogs in homes with individuals who smoke or vape for the health of our dogs.

Not only are you committing to a relationship with the dog, but you are also committing to a relationship with Mutts With A Mission for the working life of the dog. Once you receive a Mutts With A Mission dog, you are required to stay engaged with MWAM, provide veterinary updates as requested, and meet with MWAM staff in person at least once every year (including recertifications) or more if required.