Animal science departments are experiencing a surge in student interest in companion animals and assistance dogs are growing notably in popularity. To enhance experiential learning and facilitate hands-on interactions with dogs, Pennsylvania State University (PSU), West Virginia University (WVU), and others have developed service dog training programs. These initiatives aim to address the demand for well-socialized and trained assistance dogs and provide a One Health approach to hands-on learning, research and civic opportunities to our students.


PSU collaborates with a non-profit organization to provide socialization and puppy-raising opportunities for students with puppies aged two to 18 months. After this initial phase, the puppies return to the organization for advanced task training. In contrast, WVU focuses on the advanced training of dogs older than 12 months for placement with individuals with disabilities. Various colleges have crafted unique models to involve students in this sector. Though the frameworks of these programs differ widely, their impact extends far beyond the students and departments directly involved, fostering opportunities for engagement among students, faculty, and the wider community.

This workshop will present different campus service dog training models and encourage discussions on establishing similar programs at participating colleges. Participants will gain insights into the types of assistance dogs, evidence supporting the benefits of student involvement in these programs, and research highlighting the role of service dogs for individuals with disabilities.

Establishing a service dog program on a college campus presents various challenges. Successful case studies will be shared while participants engage in a table-top exercise navigating state and institution policies and laws, organizational concerns and financial hurdles. Strategies for effectively engaging college administrators and partnering organizations, as well as tips for fostering interdisciplinary support (e.g., departments of rehabilitation services, veterans affairs, civic engagement centers, occupational therapy and disability resource offices), will also be discussed.