Getting Started

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to get the process started?

In order to own a service animal via Gilford’s Golden Guardians LLC, there are four steps:


1. You must provide documentation confirming your diagnosis.


2. You must provide a written script from a healthcare practitioner recommending a service animal, with a brief description of the tasks and/or alerts that would enhance one’s independence, community access, health and/or wellness.


3. A handling assessment by Gilford’s Golden Guardians will be conducted, to best assess the content of the individual pairing. 


4. You should review our 2024 contract and communicate any questions you may have.


*Note: Consultations, meetings and training will be held remotely during the month of February, due to potential poor weather conditions. 

What are the expenses involved in the process?  

There are 3 costs associated with purchasing our consultative package:


1. The cost of the pup, paid directly to one of our breeders. Typical cost is $3,000 - $4,00.


2. The consultative training cost:

 

  • 2024 rates: 
  • Medical Alert  Dog Training- $15,000*
  • Autism Dog Training - $15,000*
  • PTSD, Psychiatric - $15,000*
  • Emotional Support  Dog Training - $13,000*

 

* After handling assessment, prices may vary based on additional  clinical needs.  Final quoted prices are valid for 90 days. 


3. The cost to maintain a dog inclusive of 2 kennels, various leads, food, vet bills, shots, spay/neuter, etc.  This is estimated to be approximately $1,000 in the first year.

* A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to initiate training.  The remaining cost is divided in ten equal installments, due on the first of each month, for ten consecutive months.


*Please indicate on your application if you are a recipient of New Hampshire's Medicaid waiver services.


Click for full terms of  2024 Contract for Services


 What will my pup learn?

Gilford's Golden Guardians trains our dogs in accordance with titles II and III of the Americans With Disabilities Act ( ADA). Our animals are individually trained, using demonstrations and consultations, and taught to perform tasks and alert(s) in response to a handler’s confirmed diagnosis.


 In addition to individualized behaviors, you pup will be taught to:

 

  • Escort 18 inches off your left hip.
  • Perform a 45 min down/stay in a distracting environment.
  • Respond to both verbal and sign commands.
  • Work on a platform and respond to visual cues.
  • Be kennel trained (mandatory).
  • Use a bell to signal needing to go out.

 

How long is the training process?
We typically train dogs to twelve months old.  

It's conceivable that with attention to detail and emphasis on daily homework that your pup may pass early.  It has been done!  

Occasionally, a pup and handler will complete the program in ten months. 

What are my responsibilities during the training program?
This program is taught like a course. Periodic demonstrations and testing is done throughout the process. Upon completion of the course, you will be expected to hand in a 3 ring binder. Gilford's Golden Guardians keeps this binder, but you may make a copy for yourself.   You can expect Keep, Start, Stop evaluations upon the completion of each session.  

You are responsible for attending 20 training sessions by the time your pup is twelve months old. 
You are responsible for keeping a community access binder.
You are responsible for texting pictures when requested.
You are responsible for keeping to the agreed-upon training appointment schedule. 

*Note: February training is done remotely, due to potential poor weather conditions.  You should plan on sending videos for critique on a weekly basis. 
Where will my pup come from and what breeds are available?
Gilford's Golden Guardians works with five breeders, and that list is growing.  These breeders offer:
  • Golden retrievers
  • Labrador retrievers 
  • Poodles 
  • Golden-doodles
  • Labra-dooles

While golden retrievers are not allergy friendly, being bred with poodles, offers a lovely F1 generation pup, who is considered allergy friendly by most.
Share by: