Frequently Asked Questions

Rescuing Dogs to Rescue People

Livengood Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming rescue dogs into highly trained service animals for individuals with disabilities. We believe in second chances—for both dogs and people—and strive to make service dog access affordable, ethical, and effective.

Through professional training, personalized support, and lifelong partnerships, we empower our teams to live with greater independence, dignity, and connection.

Livengood Service Dogs is funded through donations from individuals and grants from foundations. We do not receive any federal or state level funding.

Our Guide Dog Program is designed for individuals who are blind or visually impaired and are seeking to increase their independence through safe, consistent travel.

Applicants should have a level of vision loss that significantly impacts navigation and mobility in daily life. A guide dog is a mobility tool, so the desire and ability to travel regularly is essential.

To be considered, applicants should:

▪︎ Have a visual impairment that affects safe, independent navigation

▪︎ Be motivated to travel frequently in their daily life

▪︎ Have a foundational understanding of orientation and mobility skills

▪︎ Be able to make directional decisions such as routes and destinations

▪︎ Be physically able to walk with and care for a working dog

▪︎ Be committed to maintaining training, structure, and expectations long term

A guide dog does not replace mobility skills. It works alongside them. The handler determines where to go, and the dog ensures the path is safe.

Our program is built around creating strong, lasting teams. Because of this, we carefully evaluate each application to ensure a guide dog is the right fit for both the individual and the dog.

We’re based in Columbus, Ohio, but we serve individuals across the U.S. 

No, but with each program, travel to and from our location is the handler's responsibility.

You can fill out our online application. Once submitted, we’ll contact you for a phone interview, request documentation, and start the screening process.

Yes, but we work hard to keep it moving. Approved applicants will be notified of general wait times, but these can be expected to change.

Absolutely. All of our teams receive lifetime virtual support, including guidance from trainers and help with public access concerns, current and new task work, and more!

We’ll work with you to create a plan for retirement and discuss options for future support or rematching if needed.

We use balanced training, which combines positive reinforcement with clear boundaries. This approach helps dogs become confident, respectful, and reliable in real-world environments.

Yes to both—when appropriate. We use treats, praise, play, and affection to reward desired behaviors. When necessary, we use fair and humane corrections to guide dogs away from unwanted behaviors. Every dog is different, and we adjust our tools to fit their needs.

We may use tools like prong collars or e-collars with proper introduction and only when appropriate for the dog’s temperament and training stage. These tools are never used to punish, but to communicate clearly and safely. We always train the handler how to use them responsibly.

Absolutely! Our dogs live in our homes, not in kennels. They receive structured training, but also enjoy daily playtime, enrichment, walks, and downtime like any other well-loved family dog.

Yes. Whether your dog has had no training or has worked with a different method, we will evaluate where they are and create a plan to move them forward effectively.

Yes! At the end of training, we provide a go-home session (or matching period for low-cost placements), teach you how to use the tools and commands your dog knows, and offer lifetime support so you’re never on your own.