WWSDP Veteran Requirements

 To be eligible for consideration, all SM must submit the following records prior to selection (failure to provide records or to meet eligibility criteria is disqualifying): 

 Disability diagnosis (see RPP, section 3.1) issued by a licensed healthcare provider or the Veterans Affairs (VA) 

Letter from a healthcare provider attesting that the SM is not currently undergoing inpatient treatment, or is 6-month or more post successful substance abuse, mental health, or suicide ideation treatment 

 Letter from a healthcare provider attesting that the SM is capable of caring for a dog and participating in handler training, including required travel, if appropriate 

 Written statement attesting that the SM is financially capable of caring for a dog, including but not limited to the provision of annual veterinary care (at minimum), AAFCO-approved dog food, required tags and licensure, breed-specific grooming, and any required medications or medical treatments. For a detailed list see:https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/know-truecost-owning-dog/ 

 Proof of stable housing for over six consecutive months (e.g., utility bills, house lease). Group housing is not acceptable as proof of stable housing 

 Agreement statement from other adult(s) house members to have a dog, if appropriate 

 Written testament that SM was not convicted, or found not guilty by reason of insanity, in a civilian or military jurisdiction of any violent or substance abuse-related criminal offenses, and that the SM was never convicted of any felony that resulted in incarceration longer than sixty days. The SM must also consent to undergo a national criminal background check. Rare mitigating circumstances, such as participation in the Health Care for Re-Entry Veterans program, may be considered 

  Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD 214). SM released or discharged for any of the reasons outlined in 38 U.S.C. § 5303 and 38 CFR § 3.12(d) are ineligible.