​Thanks for your interest in applying for an Assistance Dog. This page contains important information about our eligibility criteria and the application process. Please ensure you read this before applying. If you have any questions, you can contact us by emailing info@assistancedogstrust.org.nz​

 

Who can Apply?​​

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Assistance Dogs New Zealand Trust (ADNZT) will consider applications from individuals under the age of 18 years old who have been diagnosed with one (or more) of the following disabilities or conditions:

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• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Brain Injury

• Cerebral Palsy

• Down syndrome

• Other neurological disabilities or conditions

• Other physical disabilities or conditions (including MS)

 

If an applicant has one (or more) of the above disabilities or conditions, we may also provide support with:

• Epilepsy response 

• ADHD

• Sensory Processing Disorder

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Each Assistance Dog is tailor-trained to provide at least 3 tasks that support applicants in their daily lives. If you’re unsure whether you or someone you know is eligible, please get in touch with us at info@assistancedogstrust.org.nz

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How to Apply:​

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To apply for an Assistance Dog, please click the button below.

 

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Please note:

• Applications must be submitted on or before the applicant’s 18th birthday.

• Our application team may request a clinical summary or report from the applicant’s doctor(s) and/or specialist(s) confirming the diagnosis or diagnoses listed in the application. Please ensure this documentation is ready and available if contacted.

• Parents and/or caregivers can apply on behalf of their children.

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The Full Process:

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​1. Apply​

• Submit an application.

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2. Application Received

• Once the application has been submitted, the ADNZT team will review it to determine whether the applicant is eligible. From there, someone will be in touch to discuss the outcome. This process can take up to 8 weeks.

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3. Interview and Assessment

• If the applicant is eligible, someone will be in touch to confirm a convenient time to meet with the applicant and their family.

• This interview provides both parties with the opportunity to discuss the Assistance Dog service in more detail and help decide whether receiving an Assistance Dog would be beneficial and appropriate for the applicant and their family.

• This process also helps ADNZT gain a better understanding of the environment in which the dog will live and work. Matching the right dog to the right applicant is crucial.

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4. Further Assessment (if required)

• If necessary, it may be beneficial to arrange an additional meeting to answer any questions that may have arisen since the first interview. This allows ADNZT to gain further information about the applicant’s specific needs and disability/condition.

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5. Official Waiting List

• Once a formal assessment and interview are completed, the ADNZT Acceptance Panel will discuss the application and assessment summary and will confirm via email if the application has been successful. If the application is successful, the applicant will be placed on our Official Waiting List.

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