Before Applying for a Service Dog
Seizure response vs. seizure alert: A seizure response dog is trained to perform specific tasks during or after a seizure. Some dogs may spontaneously show seizure-alert behavior, but this ability varies and cannot be reliably guaranteed. Be sure you understand which the organization is offering.
Cost and wait times: Service dogs can involve significant costs, and waitlists may be two years or longer. Ask about all costs, travel requirements, fundraising expectations, and the current estimated wait time.
Application requirements: Organizations commonly request documentation of seizure type and frequency, a physician letter, and information showing that the applicant and household can safely care for and work with a service dog.
Know your rights: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service dog trained to perform disability-related tasks has public-access protections. An emotional support animal (ESA) does not have the same public-access rights. California provides additional state protections for service animals. Requirements and protections can differ by situation, particularly for housing.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
EFNC does not have the highly specialized and/or licensed staff to train, evaluate, or place service dogs. All organizations listed below are third-party resources
not affiliated with EFNC. Please verify current status, waitlists, and costs directly with each organization before applying, as these details change frequently.
We unfortunately do not have additional information about any of these third-party facilities or programs as they are separate entities from our organization.
Financial Assistance & Support
All organizations listed below are third-party resources not affiliated
with EFNC. Please verify current status, waitlists, and eligibility directly with each organization before applying, as these details change frequently.
This page is intended to serve as a directory of external resources.
Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California is not affiliated with any organizations or programs on this page and does not have additional information about their services or requirements. Please contact each organization directly
for current information.