Ready for Membership?

Thinking About Applying? 

The Application Process

(Please read before applying)

PAWS for Service is a service-driven organization — and that’s more than just a name. Our mission is rooted in giving back to the community through meaningful, ongoing volunteer work with our certified therapy dog teams. We’ve seen growing interest from individuals who want their dog certified for use in their own workplace, or as an emotional support animal. While we understand the value of having a well-trained, supportive companion, that alone doesn’t align with our mission.

To be part of PAWS for Service, dogs must do more than serve their owner’s personal or professional needs. All teams in our program are expected to complete at least two community therapy visits per month — whether it’s visiting assisted living centers, hospitals, schools, or other outreach opportunities we organize. 

This commitment ensures that our teams truly make a difference in the lives of others — not just in familiar settings, but in the broader San Antonio community where connection, compassion and consistency matter most.

If you’re ready to serve, to show up, and to share your dog’s gift with others, we’d love to welcome you into our program.

Once certified as a team, PAWS will help connect you with a facility to visit nursing homes, assisted living centers, hospitals, schools, libraries – there are many places where our teams serve others. 

The first step is for you to fill out the application.

 

Be sure to submit your application by hitting the green button at the bottom of the application!

Prior to entering a class, your dog must be at least 2 years old, well socialized and enjoy being petted by different people. He or she must have completed either puppy kindergarten, basic obedience or received its Canine Good Citizen recognition. They should not display any aggression towards other dogs.

Once you fill out the application, you will receive an email that gives you specific dates of interviews and trainings. We hold two trainings per year: Fall and Spring.

Interviews are held to meet the team – owner and dog, assess the dog’s temperament and determine the potential for a good fit between the team and the PAWS program. 

After the interview, if you have been accepted, you will be assigned to attend either a Monday class or a Thursday class. Classes are once a week for 8 weeks; and attending all classes is essential to graduating from our program. Classes are scheduled between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM for an hour. Once you successfully complete the class and pass the certification exam, you will be assigned a mentor team and a facility to visit.

Classes and evaluations are held at University Methodist Church, 5084 De Zavala Rd at the corner of Vance Jackson and De Zavala.