Frequently Asked Questions

For many individuals, a service dog can feel out of reach. With the cost of a highly trained service dog averaging around $50,000, access is often limited to only a few. At Althea Canines, we are committed to changing that—working to make expertly trained service dogs available to those living with mental health disabilities or mobility challenges so more people can experience the independence and support they deserve. At the heart of our program is a deeply supportive, human-centered approach. Our volunteers and trainers create small, welcoming learning environments where individuals feel empowered to advocate for themselves and grow alongside their caninepartners. We provide lifetime support—meeting you where you are, every step of the way. Our training philosophy is rooted in kindness, respect, and trust. Following LIMA

1. (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles, we use clear communication, patience, and positive methods to build strong, lasting partnerships. We do not use fear or force—no striking, yanking, or e-collars—because we believe the best outcomes come from relationships built on understanding and compassion. Looking ahead, our vision is to expand access to facility dogs as well. We strive for a future where every law enforcement agency, fire department, senior care center, and educational facility has a highly trained facility dog—supporting not only their staff but also the communities they serve with comfort, connection, and care.

Service animals are dogs of any breed or size that are trained to perform tasks directly related to a person’s disability, helping them live more independently and safely. They also provide comfort and confidence, making everyday life easier to navigate.

Service dogs are trained to perform a wide range of tasks based on an individual’s needs. Guide dogs support those with vision impairments, mobility service dogs assist individuals with physical challenges, psychiatric service dogs help those with conditions such as bipolar disorder, PTSD, or severe depression, and medical alert dogs can detect seizures or changes in blood sugar for individuals with diabetes.

Note: Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not service dogs and do not have the same specialized training or public access rights.

• Alert to an oncoming panic attack (e.g., nudging or licking the hand)
• Wake their handler from night terrors
• Create space in crowded environments
• Remind their handler to take medications
• Guide their handler to a door or exit
• Provide deep pressure during moments of distress
• Interrupt or alert to harmful or unsafe behaviors

In the United States, service animals are primarily overseen by the U.S. Department of Justice under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA defines what qualifies as a service animal and protects the rights of individuals who use them in public spaces.

Other agencies may play a role in specific situations—for example, the U.S. Department of Transportation regulates service animals in air travel, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development oversees rules related to housing and assistance animals.