How to Get a Psychiatric Service Dog in Colorado?

• Eligibility Requirements: A diagnosed mental health condition recognized by a licensed professional.
• Process: Train the dog to perform tasks that assist with the mental health condition and request a PSD letter from a mental health professional.
• Training Options: Contact a professional service dog trainer in Colorado, adopt a trained service dog, or self-train your dog.
• Legal Protections: Your rights are protected under the ADA, FHA, and ACAA.
• Best Dog Breeds: Bernese Mountain Dog, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Standard Poodle, and Border Collie.
• PSD Registration in Colorado: There is no official PSD registration. Avoid falling for this scam.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) doesn’t require service dogs to be registered or certified. Many individuals mistakenly believe that obtaining a registration for their psychiatric service dog is necessary to enjoy the rights afforded to them under the ADA. However, the law clearly states that a service dog is defined by the tasks it performs for a person with a disability, not by its registration status.

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) prohibits discrimination by U.S. and foreign airlines based on disability. It includes specific provisions that protect the rights of passengers flying with service dogs, ensuring that you can fly with your service animal without facing unnecessary barriers.

Key Points Under ACAA

• Airlines are prohibited from charging extra fees for passengers traveling with service dogs, as long as the dog meets the ACAA requirements.
• Service dogs must be well-behaved and under the handler’s control at all times.
• Disruptive behavior (e.g., barking, growling, jumping on people) can result in the airline denying transport.
• Airlines may require passengers to submit forms verifying the service dog’s health, behavior, and training. This includes a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form and, for flights over 8 hours, a DOT Relief Attestation Form regarding the dog’s ability to relieve itself appropriately.
• Service dogs are allowed to accompany their handlers in the aircraft cabin, either at the handler’s feet or in the space in front of the seat.

There are many dog breeds but certain breeds are often considered good candidates due to their natural traits and trainability. Here are five popular psychiatric service dog breeds in Colorado:

• Dog Training Elite
• Faithfully K9
• Sunrise Service Dogs

If you prefer to skip the psychiatric service dog training phase altogether, consider adopting a dog that has already been trained as a psychiatric service dog. Various organizations in Colorado specialize in providing trained PSDs, although this option can be more expensive. Here are some reputable organizations to consider for psychiatric service dog training in Colorado:

• Mountain High Service Dogs: 719 440-8282
• Service Dog School of America: 916 701-6458
• Dog Training Elite: 720 986-4364
• Freedom Service Dogs: (303) 922-6231

Self-training can be an intimidating but rewarding option if you have the time, patience, and energy. To successfully train your dog yourself, consider the following:

• Research Training Techniques: Familiarize yourself with effective psychiatric service dog training methods in Colorado. Resources such as books, online courses, and videos can provide valuable guidance.
• Set Realistic Goals: Break down the training into manageable tasks, focusing on one skill at a time. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key.
• Be Patient: Training requires time and patience. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep yourself and your dog motivated.

However, with Fast ESA Letter, you can obtain a PSD letter for just $149, making it a more affordable option for those seeking legal documentation to qualify for a psychiatric service dog in Colorado.