At ECAD, the process begins when the inquirer completes the pre-qualification questionnaire.aire.

If you decide that ECAD is the right organization and would like to proceed with the application, the first stage in acquiring an Assistance Dog is APPLICANT. Those who qualify are known as applicants and move into the next phase of the process which is filling out the online application.

To see the rest of the journey check out our infografic

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Service Dog from ECAD?

At ECAD, each expertly educated Assistance Dog represents an investment of over $100,000. This figure reflects not only the cost of breeding, raising, and training the dog but also the extensive process of carefully matching it with the right client — and providing ongoing support and follow-up care for the life of the team.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, grants, and volunteers, we do not ask clients to pay the full cost. Instead, we invite each client to participate in a fundraising effort, contributing a portion of the overall cost. This commitment helps make their own partnership possible while also ensuring future clients can receive an Assistance Dog.

Our goal is to make service dogs accessible while helping raise awareness about the true value and long-term impact of these life-changing animals. Every dollar raised supports ECAD’s mission — from puppyhood to partnership, and through every chapter of the client-dog journey.

If you’re a prospective client, we’ll support you throughout the fundraising process. If you're a donor, your contribution directly helps individuals gain greater independence, dignity, and quality of life.

How long does it take to get a Service Dog from ECAD?

The journey to being matched with an ECAD Assistance Dog is as unique as each client we serve. While the average time from acceptance as a Candidate to graduation is typically 18 to 24 months, this timeline can vary depending on several important factors.

These may include, but are not limited to:

• Current waitlist times
• The specific skills and tasks your dog will need to perform
• The level of customization required to meet your individual needs
• The availability of a suitable dog within our training program
• Your fundraising progress as part of the “pay-it-forward” model

We understand that waiting for a Service Dog can feel like a long process, and we’re committed to keeping you informed and supported every step of the way. Our goal is to ensure the best possible match — setting you and your future Assistance Dog up for long-term success and partnership.