Give Us Paws

Service dog training is an 8–12 month program requiring completion of private and group classes: Basic Foundation Skills I and II, Group Skills, Public Access Skills, Applied Skills, and customized Task-Training. Progression requires successful completion of prior courses and trainer clearance. Training includes weekly 1-hour sessions with homework, email support, and log requirements. Handlers train alongside their dogs as primary trainers under professional guidance. Program culminates in passing the ADI Public Access Test and demonstrating three disability-mitigating tasks.

Pricing Summary

Free service dog training for eligible veterans; civilian training costs range from $350 for group skills to $750 per 5-week course for foundation and applied skills, with task training costing $1,500+ over 10–36 weeks. Total service dog program costs typically range from $3,500–$7,500, paid in $750 increments. Puppy Start Right Preschool is currently not offered.

Policies

Clearance to progress through training programs is contingent on successful completion of prior courses, dog behavior, and handler participation. Training is not guaranteed to continue if progress is insufficient. No explicit cancellation or rescheduling policy is stated.

Give Us Paws is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Houston, Texas, offering subsidized and free service dog training for veterans with PTSD, TBI, Military Sexual Trauma, and limited mobility, as well as subsidized training for civilians with disabilities under the ADA. They also provide paid pet dog training for families, including Puppy Start Right Preschool and Basic Foundation Skills classes. Training is conducted using positive reinforcement methods, including clicker training, treats, and rewards, with no corrections or force. Their programs are designed to build strong handler-dog teams, with a focus on public access skills and disability-specific tasks. The organization is led by Paul Buescher, a certified KPA CTP and PCT-A trainer, and emphasizes evidence-based, reliable training standards.

They offer both group classes and private lessons tailored to individual needs, with flexible scheduling options for those with physical limitations, busy schedules, or other barriers to regular attendance. Training is held at their facility in Houston, and they provide unlimited email support throughout courses. Give Us Paws is currently pursuing ADI candidacy, reflecting their commitment to high national standards in service dog training.

In addition to training, they offer pet grooming services and accept donations to support free training for those with financial need. They are not currently offering Puppy Start Right Preschool classes but continue to provide training for dogs over 20 weeks old and service dog candidates.

Accomplishments

Give Us Paws has been awarded Candidate Membership status by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) as of January 2025. Lead trainer Paul Buescher is a KPA CTP and PCT-A certified trainer and was named KPA CTP of the Month in November 2024.

How to Get Started!

Interested individuals must first determine eligibility through the Program Eligibility page, then submit an Application Form. After approval, they will be placed on a waitlist based on funding and course availability. New clients are contacted to schedule an initial evaluation and training plan.