our dogs. our programs.
supporting people & communities
WAGS puppies are carefully chosen from select breeders based on health and temperament. WAGS finds Golden Retrievers uniquely qualified for service dog work due to their intelligence, temperament and orientation toward humans. WAGS dogs are raised and trained in the homes of volunteer trainers under the guidance and supervision of the WAGS Program Director.
WAGS trains dogs for three service roles; Service Dogs for Individuals, School Service Dogs and Clinical Therapy Dogs.
Service Dogs for Individuals
Practical support for greater independence.
A WAGS service dog provides practical assistance with activities of daily living, such as retrieving dropped and out of reach items, opening and closing doors, operating light switches and buttons, tugging on/off clothing and providing unconditional love and companionship.
Our client services include training at the WAGS facility and specialized training in a client’s home and other environments. WAGS teaches the entire range of handling skills necessary to ensure the success of each team.
Contact WAGS to learn more about our Service Dog program and whether it may be a good fit for you.
School Service Dogs
Supporting students through connection.
The WAGS School Service Dog Program partners highly trained WAGS Clinical Therapy Dogs with school-based clinicians, including nurses, reading and language specialists, and social workers. Together, they help foster connection, provide emotional support, and enhance therapeutic interactions with students.
WAGS Clinical Therapy Dogs support schools in many ways, including encouraging reluctant readers, comforting students experiencing stress or grief, participating in individual and group sessions, supporting immunization clinics, assisting during critical response, and promoting a welcoming, supportive school environment.
Since the program began, WAGS Clinical Therapy Dogs have positively impacted thousands of students. Through our partnership with the Madison Metropolitan School District, WAGS is committed to expanding access to Clinical Therapy Dogs so more students, educators, and school communities can benefit from their unique support.
Learn how WAGS partners with schools.
Clinical Therapy Dogs
Support for people in therapeutic settings
Clinical Therapy Dogs are specially trained working dogs paired with clinicians and other professionals to provide comfort, connection, and support in therapeutic settings. WAGS Clinical Therapy Dogs can support a variety of organizations and populations, including healthcare, mental health, senior care, and other community settings.
WAGS works with partner organizations to prepare and place Clinical Therapy Dogs based on the needs of their programs. Each dog receives individualized training to develop the skills and behaviors needed to become a valued member of a professional care team.
Learn how a Clinical Therapy Dog could support your organization.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you’re interested in a WAGS Service Dog or a Clinical Therapy Dog for your organization, we’re here to help you understand the process. Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions section or contact us for more information.
