Facility Dogs

What is a Facility Dog?

It takes more than two years and costs over $50,000 to train a Guide Dog, Autism Assistance Dog, Companion Dog or Facility Dog. This includes the time required to socialise a dog, teach obedience and provide exposure to different environments.

Each dog in the Guide Dogs WA training program is regularly assessed throughout its training journey and a career is chosen that best suits the dog’s skills, abilities and characteristics. A dog may train as a Guide Dog, Autism Assistance Dog or a Facility Dog.

Guide Dogs WA Facility Dogs are highly trained dogs that undertake specific, skilled tasks in a variety of different situations within a facility environment.

Facility Dogs work in offices, courts, educational settings and many other places. Each Facility Dog receives tailored training from highly skilled professionals for the type of facility they will attend. Additional training for employees of the facility may be required. There is no set time for this stage of training as it is dependent on the placement.

Facility Dogs can reduce stress and anxiety, improve speech and memory function and improve physical and mental wellbeing.

The definitions of Facility Dogs are set by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) (link opens in new window), of which Guide Dogs WA is a member.

Under the Facility Dog program agreement, the dog remains in the care and responsibility of Guide Dogs WA.

What costs are involved for a Facility Dog?

Costs for the Facility Dog program include but are not limited to:

• Initial and ongoing training by specialised professionals for staff to understand the role of the dog and to ensure the safety and appropriate care of the dog.
• Ongoing support by a professional team for the duration of the placement.
• Food, bedding, vet care, enrichment toys.
• Travel costs to and from the facility.

The Guide Dogs WA Facility Dog program is not covered by the NDIS and costs to the facility will be incurred.

Facility Dog enquiry

Please complete the expression of interest form below to make an initial enquiry. If you have any further questions or need assistance with this form please contact us on (08) 9311 8202 or email info@guidedogswa.com.au

Further information and assessments to determine eligibility will be required and successful applications will be placed on a waitlist until a suitable match is identified. There is no set waiting period for a Facility Dog to become available.

Please be aware that not all facilities will be deemed suitable. Our team will provide alternative recommendations when required.

All Facility Dog placements will undertake a trial period and following this the duration of the partnership will be formalised for each individual placement. The duration of the partnership may differ depending on the needs and goals of the facility and the role of the dog within that facility.