Submit an application
Choose the disabled-veteran application or the parent/guardian application for a military child. Provide complete, honest information and the required documents.
How it works
A careful process centered on the right partnership.
Acceptance is not a promise of an immediate dog. Every decision is based on safety, readiness, disability-related needs, and the likelihood of long-term success.
Application review
Lila's Friends reviews eligibility, disability-related needs, household readiness, safety considerations, location, and the applicant's ability to participate in training.
Conversation and evaluation
Qualified applicants may be invited to speak with our team so we can better understand daily needs, expectations, and whether a service dog is an appropriate fit.
Dog selection and training
Dogs are selected for health, temperament, task suitability, and compatibility. Training timelines vary because every dog must be allowed to develop and mature.
Team preparation
Children receive a fully trained dog after family team training. Veterans train with their dog throughout the trainer-guided program and attend required Saturday sessions.
Graduation and continued support
A team graduates only when the dog and handler demonstrate safe, reliable work together. Veteran-program dogs are adopted by the veteran after successful graduation.
What applicants should expect
Thorough review. Honest communication. No rushed placements.
Lila's Friends works with a small number of dogs so each team receives meaningful attention. Timelines depend on the dog's development, the complexity of required tasks, family or veteran participation, and demonstrated readiness.