Happy Tails Service Dogs

Students and their dogs attend weekly group classes for approximately 15 months. Training includes classroom instruction, community outings, and one-on-one sessions in the student’s home. Students must pass the Canine Good Citizen test, Public Access test, and a certification evaluation conducted in multiple real-world environments. The program requires a commitment of 2 hours per week of training and proper dog care. Graduates may become Peer Mentors and participate in community outreach.

Pricing Summary

All training services are provided free of charge to students. No fees are charged for classes, evaluations, or certification. The organization is funded through donations and sponsorships.

Policies

Students must commit to the full 15-month program and meet all requirements including weekly attendance, home training, and passing required tests. There is no mention of cancellation or rescheduling policies, as the program is structured as a long-term commitment with no fees involved.

Happy Tails Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization that trains individuals with physical disabilities to train their own dogs as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The program provides free, comprehensive training over approximately 15 months, including weekly classroom sessions, community outings, and in-home instruction. Students must complete the Canine Good Citizen test, Public Access test, and a certification evaluation conducted in their home, during local travel, and at a mall. The organization emphasizes individualized training based on the owner’s specific needs, helping them achieve greater independence. Graduates may become Peer Mentors and participate in community presentations. The program is open only to Arizona residents with a physical disability who can commit to 2 hours of weekly training and provide proper dog care.

Dogs must be between 12 months and 4 years old, spayed/neutered, licensed, up-to-date on immunizations, have completed one obedience class, and show no aggression. The organization does not train dogs for emotional support or as pets; all training is task-based to assist with physical disabilities. Happy Tails also hosts an annual Christmas party for students and graduates to build community.

The organization was founded in 1996 and provides all services free of charge, funded by donations and sponsors. It is not a traditional dog training business for general pet owners but is specifically designed for people with physical disabilities seeking a certified service dog partnership.

Accomplishments

Founded in 1996, Happy Tails Service Dogs has trained hundreds of service dog teams over nearly three decades. The organization is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit with tax ID 86-0786265. It hosts an annual Christmas party for graduates and provides community presentations. All services are free, and the program is recognized for its comprehensive, individualized approach to service dog training under ADA guidelines.

How to Get Started!

Prospective students must be Arizona residents with a physical disability recognized by the ADA. They must have a dog aged 12–48 months that is spayed/neutered, licensed, vaccinated, and has completed one obedience class. Interested individuals should contact Joyce Weber at (623) 580-0946 to begin the application process and receive an evaluation.