If you’re living with a disability in Oklahoma, it might be worth training your pooch (or a new puppy) to become a service dog. Not only do these lovable creatures provide invaluable assistance with everyday tasks, but they also receive legal protections under federal and state laws.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) affords anyone with an eligible disability the right to bring a service dog into any “public accommodation” (restaurants, entertainment venues, retail stores, educational institutions, etc.). Businesses, landlords, and airlines cannot charge for a service dog or treat the owner differently than other customers or tenants, providing the animal is housebroken and well-behaved.
Some states have additional protections for service animals that go beyond that of the ADA. Unfortunately, Oklahoma is not one of them. In fact, state laws surrounding service animals are limited to those that serve handlers who have physical disabilities. Therefore, Oklahoma does not recognize psychiatric service dogs as service animals. Luckily, the ADA does recognize psychiatric service dogs, and because it is a federal law, businesses must abide by it regardless of what Oklahoma state laws say.
Although there are no formal certification or registration requirements, a canine must be adequately trained to qualify as a service dog. In this article, we’ll cover what to consider when searching for a service dog trainer and then review the top five providers in Oklahoma.
What to Look For When Choosing Service Dog Training
Choosing an appropriate service dog training center is the first step towards turning a canine companion into a bonafide service animal.
Regardless of whether you choose an online or in-person trainer, it’s best to stick with an established operator with years (or decades) of industry experience. Look for a provider with a proven track record with your specific disability.
Not all trainers work with every dog. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing—it could mean they excel at training a specific breed. Some insist on working with a custom-bred puppy, while others accept existing pets (after a rigorous evaluation) or source animals from a local shelter. In any case, check whether these conditions align with your needs.
For a brick-and-mortar establishment, it’s worth assessing the facilities in person before committing. Are the kennels in good shape? Do the dogs have plenty of open space? A low-quality trainer will cut corners and deliver subpar results.
While a sizable wait list is indicative of a successful business (or a popular non-profit), you should consider your own timeline as well. If you need an animal trained in a hurry, there’s no point joining a five-year waiting list.
Finally, cost is a crucial consideration. While the law requires a service dog to be capable of supporting its owner, there’s no legal requirement to enlist a professional trainer. An online training course gives you the necessary tools to train your animal at home and saves you thousands compared to an in-person program.
Online vs. In-Person Service Dog Training
So what’s the best option for training a service dog: in-person or online? Both methods have their advantages, which we’ll discuss below.
While an in-person course requires you to attend scheduled classes, an online program lets you train your animal at your convenience—you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your own home. The most significant benefit, however, is cost. Online programs give you all the support and guidance you need at a fraction of the price of an in-person course.
Although rigid and expensive, in-person programs may achieve better results because an experienced professional provides expert, tailor-made training sessions. Furthermore, the in-person option puts less burden on the owner, essential when a severe disability renders self-training impractical. Both humans and canines also get ample opportunity to socialize and exercise—active and outgoing owners often find in-person training more fun.
| Pros of Online Service Dog Training | Pros of In-Person Service Dog Training |
| Cost-effective: online courses cost a fraction of the price of in-person programs | Less owner burden: trainers do most of the work, essential for people with severe disabilities. |
| Convenience: train your dog at a time that’s suitable for you | Expertise: in-person trainers draw on years of experience to achieve optimal results |
| Comfort: no need to leave the comfort of your own home | Exercise and socialization: you and your dog will get out and about |
The Best Service Dog Training in Oklahoma
Now that you’re up to speed, it’s time to check out the top service dog training programs in Oklahoma, both in-person or online. We’ve searched long and hard to identify and review the top courses in the state to make the selection process easier for you.
US Service Animals Online Training
The top dog in virtual training, US Service Animals Online Training, gives you everything you need to teach your canine to become a service dog from home. The six-module program consists of 12 easy-to-follow videos that outline cutting-edge animal behavior theories and how they apply to your four-legged friend. Unlike other online programs, you’ll get customized support from a professional service dog trainer throughout the course.
The comprehensive program teaches your pet to assist with various disabilities, including blindness, hearing loss, diabetes, mobility issues, and epilepsy. No breed or size restrictions apply, and you get a handy certificate at the end (there’s also an optional service vest, collar, collar tag, and leash).
Cost: $349
Location: Online only (6 video modules)
Certificate: Yes
1:1 Support: Yes
Equipment Provided: Clicker, plus optional service vest, collar, collar tag, and leash
Glad Wags Service Dogs
Glad Wags Service Dogs primarily matches handlers with one of their dogs, or they can help train a privately-owned dog so long as it passes their preliminary test. When applicants request a dog from Glad Wags, they train dogs from shelters and rescue groups as opposed to breeders. Glad Wags has a $200 application fee and then half the cost of the dog is used as a down payment. Cost can vary, potential applicants are encouraged to reach out.
Training time varies depending on how old the dog is as well as what tasks the dog is to learn. During the last portion of this training, applicants meet their service dog for weekly classes for bond development and so the handler can keep training consistent. In-home visits are also arranged during this period so the service dog can get used to their primary environment.
Cost: $200 application fee, overall cost varies
Location: Tulsa, OK
Certificate: No
1:1 Support: Yes
Equipment Provided: Unspecified
Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma
Therapetics Service Dogs of Oklahoma has been providing service dogs since 1992. They also work hard to increase awareness of the rights of service dogs and their handlers, and the advocate for them within the community.
All their service dogs are trained in public areas, so that they are ready to do tasks in the most distracting or challenging public spaces. They focus on training service dogs that help with PTSD related to military service or first responder experiences.
Cost: Free
Location: Tulsa, OK
Certificate: Unspecified
1:1 Support: Yes
Equipment Provided: Unspecified