Our Mission:
To provide custom-trained dogs for those individuals committed to bettering their lives through the use of an Assistance Dog
The Organization:
TLCAD, is a nonprofit organization (U.S. IRS, Section 501(c)(3) that complies with the American Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements). TLCAD provides custom-trained Assistance Dogs to people with disabilities in San Diego County, California. We are an all-volunteer organization, sustained by Foundations, Grants, Sponsorships and Donations. TLCAD was certified by Assistance Dogs International in 2007.
TLCAD does not charge for Assistance Dogs.
The Team-One Trainer, One Dog, One Handler:
Each trainer is responsible for raising and training a dog to assistance level, which usually takes about eighteen months. After this initial training TLCAD assigns the trainer and the dog to a disabled handler creating a team dedicated to meeting the handler’s specific needs. This requires an additional six months of advanced training. *Applicants are carefully screened for the placement of an Assistance Dog.
The focus of TLCAD is on quality not quantity.
TLCAD’s Training Method:
We use positive reinforcement training techniques and no dogs are kept in a kennel environment. Instead, trainers are encouraged to have dogs live in social settings, where people live, work, and play, so the dogs can learn appropriate behaviors, commands, and responses to everyday life. The requirement of six months advanced training develops each dog to its full potential, teaches the disabled handler how to make the most of their Assistance Dog and creates a strong bond between the dog and its handler.
TLCAD will sustain the working life of each Assistance Dog.
The Handler’s Responsibility:
Assistance Dogs are not "pets". An Assistance Dog is a working member of the family. As such, Assistance Dogs require respect and understanding at all times. A disabled handler must learn to look after and protect the interests of their Assistance Dog with just as much dedication as their Assistance Dog will look after them.
Any disabled applicant must be willing to make a commitment of time, love and energy for the life of the Assistance Dog.
If you would like to apply for a TLCAD Assistance Dog please contact us here.
If you are Interested in Volunteering
please contact us here.
If you are Interested in Sponsoring or Donating please contact us here.
Member of ADI
TLCAD on TV
ABC News
Service Dog Helps Enrich The Life Of Autistic Child
