FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

 

IS THERE A COST TO THE PROGRAM?

  • If you are not fully sponsored, either through DVA or an alternate sponsor you may need to contribute between $3,000 – $5,000 for the supply of the dog, training and ongoing support costs.
  • Integra, while a small, not for profit organisation, will always endeavour to support Veterans and First Responders in need on a case by case basis.

WHAT AVENUES ARE AVAILABLE TO PROVIDE SUPPORT FUNDING?

  • If you are a ADF Veteran you can apply through the DVA PAD program.
  • If you are a Veteran or First Responder who is ineligible or unwilling to apply for the DVA program you may apply directly to Integra.
  • To contribute to your costs you may wish to approach your organisation, insurer or staff associations, in the case of First Responders, or seek corporate sponsorship support.
  • Integra is always willing to discuss support options with individuals on a case-by-case basis.

AM I ELIGIBLE FOR AN INTEGRA ASSISTANCE DOG?

  • If you are a Veteran or First Responder that meets the requirements outlined in the ‘How to Apply’ section above, you are eligible to be considered for the placement of an Integra Assistance Dog.

WHAT WILL MY COMMITMENT BE?

  • Your commitment is to ensure you:
    • have a safe home environment and suitable space for the dog to secure it from theft or loss
    • have the time to commit to the structured training of your Labrador dog
    • are emotionally and physically resilient enough to take on the responsibilities of providing for the welfare of your dog, and
    • if applying without a sponsor, are in a financial position to contribute to the costs ($3,000 to $5,000) of your training fees for the dog and for contributing to the veterinary care and support of your trainee Assistance Dog

WHAT TYPE OF DOG DOES INTEGRA PROVIDE?

  • Integra provides Labrador or Labrador x Retriever breeds.
  • Integra does not provide non-allergenic dogs or small breed dogs.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A DOG?

  • Once your application is approved, it usually takes up to 6 months to provide a suitable dog and a further 6 – 12 months to complete training and the Public Access Test.

CAN I DEVELOP MY OWN DOG AS AN ASSISTANCE DOG?

  • Yes, on occasions Integra has worked with Handlers to assess and train their existing dogs to meet the requirements of an Assistance Dog.
  • Integra is unable to train existing dogs under the DVA PAD program.

HOW DOES THE TRAINING WORK?

  • Integra’s training involves placing the dog with the Veteran or First Responder (Handler). Our Trainers work directly with the Handler and their dog.
  • The program is structured and works through four phases:
    • Socialisation and Basis Orientation
    • Core Skills
    • Essential Skills
    • Advanced Skills
  • For further details on each phase please go to Our Program

Want to know more?

Please contact us at enquiries@isda.com.au.