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Life After Graduation

Training & Follow-ups

After completing the IOWA Service Dogs training and graduation process, Warrior Teams will have regular follow-ups with our representatives. Because we want to make sure you have everything you need as a new team, follow-ups start once a month and then taper to yearly as you become comfortable with your dog. These follow-ups will mainly be in person but may also occur via phone call.

The follow-up schedule:

  • Once a month for 6 months after graduation

  • 9 months after graduation

  • 1 year after graduation

  • Once a year around the Warrior Team’s graduation anniversary

These visits help us make sure you and the dog are working together as the best possible team. They also allow us to make training recommendations to keep problems from getting out of hand.

IOWA Service Dogs representatives may choose to meet you at your home, in public, or at your workplace (if requested). You must keep these appointments with IOWA Service Dogs.

Other Responsibilities

Besides training, what responsibilities are involved with a service dog from IOWA Service Dogs?

All dogs need physical exercise and mental stimulation, but these requirements are especially important for a highly intelligent working dog. You will need to provide at least a one-hour brisk walk, 20-30 minutes of vigorous play, and 20-30 minutes of training for the dog each day. If you are physically incapable of exercising the dog, you must make arrangements for someone else to do so. Letting the dog out in a yard does not constitute adequate exercise. We do not permit electronic fencing or visits to dog parks.

Grooming the dog is another requirement. If you cannot bathe and groom the dog yourself, you will need to determine where you will take it and consider the expense of such services.

Regular veterinary care is essential. You must adhere to our recommended checkup and vaccination schedule. You must also keep your dog current on monthly parasite prevention medications.

A good quality food will be essential in maintaining a healthy weight for the dog (we will provide recommendations).

Although IOWA Service Dogs will give you essential equipment such as a crate, collar and leash, vest and training equipment, toys, and so on, when you receive your dog, these supplies wear out, and you will need to replace them.

You can expect to spend $1,000–$1,500 per year over 10- to 12-year lifespan. This is a serious financial commitment, which you should consider carefully before applying for a service dog.

Upon graduation, the Warrior is financially responsible for the dog. IOWA Service Dogs retains ownership in the event the dog is not properly cared for or training is allowed to regress. Should the Warrior decide a service dog is not for them, the dog will be returned to IOWA Service Dogs.

We are there for the life of the dog. If you have questions between followup appointments, we encourage you to reach out to us! Our goal is to help you and your service dog be a successful team.

While not required, we would love to have our graduate Warrior Teams attend IOWA Service Dog events. You could be the reason another first responder or veteran reaches out for help.