Working with law enforcement and first responders has been a successful new career option for retired Service Dogs that have been voluntarily returned by their Warriors. Since Service Dog work is typically for the lifetime of the dog, K9s For Warriors pairs Warriors with dogs that are 2-3 years old, so the dog and Warrior have maximum time together over their lifetime. These dogs are ready for a new career.
Before starting their new career, each dog is medically cleared with limited to no medical needs (so they do not place a financial burden on the receiving agency). They also receive a basic obedience training refresher and learn some special commands to assist them in their role as a Station Dog, although, “Make a Friend” is likely the only command they need to make a difference.
Each Station Dog must meet rigorous training standards and must pass a variety of skills tests where they must perform reliably and appropriately in all scenarios. Station Dogs should not be reactive to other animals and should be friendly and confident so that new sights, sounds, and experiences do not startle them.
In accordance with K9s For Warriors standards, Station Dogs will be easily identifiable by wearing their provided vest with identification patches while working in the agency assigned.