Wisconsin Academy for Graduate Service Dogs
Promoting Independence and Quality of Life through Partnerships with Service Dogs

Our Program

From the selection of our puppies to our client training and follow-up, our mission of promoting functional independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities remains central to every aspect of WAGS, Inc..

WAGS strives to provide an unobtrusive helpmate to our clients; not a burden to deal with. We try to minimize hunting instincts so that the dog will not try to chase cats and squirrels. Our dogs can be safely taken out in public because we avoid protective instincts. We select for a quiet, unexcitable dog so that its human partner is not constantly required to manage behavior.

Our staff and volunteers know that early puppyhood education is vital to the success of these incredible helpmates. WAGS pups are given every opportunity to become well rounded and thinking dogs. We provide our puppies with toys, games, experiences, and positive reinforcement training that helps them to develop their service dog minds. The WAGS SHOP is designed to bring out the best in every dog in the program.

Despite our careful selection and training, from time to time we do have a dog that, due to health or temperament, cannot be placed in any of the four WAGS dog roles. A non-graduate dog is usually released between 1-2 years of age. They are spayed or neutered and are current on vaccinations. Those interested in adopting a non-graduate dog need to fill out a non-graduate application, pass a home visit and pay the required adoption fee.

WAGS dogs that pass their final evaluation will go on to become teammates with individuals who have requested a WAGS dog and completed our entire application process. We match one of our fully trained dogs with a qualified individual who has similar personality characteristics.

Our client services include a week-long training class at the WAGS training facility followed by specialized training in the home and environment of each recipient. We will teach the entire range of dog handling skills necessary for each team to be successful. Our services do not end there. Two times each year we hold a public graduation ceremony where we recognize the accomplishments of our clients, dogs and volunteers. WAGS has a comprehensive follow up program to ensure the continued success of every team.