DO YOU HANDLE SERVICE DOG ADOPTIONS?
No. While some of the veterans that participate in our program own a service dog or eventually get a dog or a service dog, our mission is not to provide or train service animals.
HOW CAN I JOIN YOUR PROGRAM?
Call 815-200-9020 or email contact@circleofchangeprogram.com and and we will assist you in getting registered for a class time and location that is best for you.
HOW CAN I GET MY DOG INVOLVED IN YOUR PROGRAM?
All of the participating dogs are screened carefully to determine if they are a good fit by COC's experienced trainers. All dogs participating in the program MUST have up-to-date vaccinations, including Kennel Cough. Most dogs that participate have behavioral issues, but paticipants are allowed to bring their own dog at the discretion of the trainers and Executive Director.
DO I HAVE TO OWN A DOG TO PARTICIPATE?
No. Our program works best if the trainers provide dogs for the vets to work with. New challenges keeps things interesting and we are able to not only help our participants, but family's and dogs in desperate need of help.
CAN I BRING MY OWN DOG TO CLASS?
It isn't necessary to bring your dog to class, because dogs are provided. Though, with special exceptions, your trainer may allow you to use your own dog with special permission. A behavior assessment is completed by our experienced trainers and is required before dogs are brought into our classes. All dogs participating in the program must be up-to-date on their Rabies, distemper, Parvo and Bordatella vaccinations. (Proof required)
WHAT MAKES CIRCLE OF CHANGE DIFFERENT THAN OTHER DOG/VETERAN ORGANIZATIONS?
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We DO NOT provide service dogs
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We DO NOT provide dog adoptions
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Appropriate dogs are provided by trainers
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Dog ownership is NOT required to participate
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Benefits gained without the responsibility of ownership
HOW DO I GET A REFERRAL TO BE IN THE VETERANS DOG PROGRAM?
For Veterans interested in a referral to our Rockford classes can contact the Rockford VA Clinic at (815)227-0081 or a clinician at the Rockford Vet Center, (815)395-1276 or call Erin Rabon at Circle of Change (815)200-9020 for help coordinating entry into the program.
For referral to our Madison class, contact your VA clinician or Donald Bialkowski, at (608)256-1901. OIF/OEF/OND veterans may contact Program Director, Jay White at (608)256-1901 X11962. You may also get a referral from a clinician at the Madison Vet Center, (608)264-5342.
For help coordinating entry into the program call Erin Rabon at Circle of Change (815) 200-9020.
First Responders interested in classes can call (815) 200-9020 for more information on how to get registered.