Service Dogs Fostered and Trained by UMass Students

WWLP Channel 22 reports.

These dogs are trained to help with a variety of disorders including post-traumatic stress, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and autism.

The dogs are typically placed in their new homes after 16-18 months of rigorous training. This semester alone, nearly 30 dogs are being fostered and trained by students at UMass Amherst.

Students must complete applications to enroll and foster and train a service dog. Course instructor, Dr. Telfer coordinates enrollment of approved fosterers in the class with the director of Diggity Dogs Service Dogs, Sarah Meikle.