Applying from Out of State
We welcome applications from Veterans across the country. While our service dog program is based in Oceanside, California, we have structured our process to accommodate out-of-state participants through a hybrid format.
How the Program Works
Rather than attending weekly sessions, out-of-state participants will travel to our Oceanside facility for several consecutive days at key points throughout the program. You can expect a minimum of 3–4 visits over the course of the program, typically spanning a weekend or two days per visit. These visits cover the matching process, handler skills training, and preparation for the Public Access Test, which we administer in accordance with Assistance Dogs International (ADI) standards.
The Application Process
Out-of-state applicants complete the same application as all other Veterans in our program. The one difference is that your initial interview will be conducted via Zoom rather than in person. If you currently have a pet dog, we understand that traveling for an evaluation isn’t always practical — we will work with you to connect with a qualified trainer local to you who can conduct the pet evaluation on our behalf.
Travel Assistance
Angel Flight West
We have established a referral program with Angel Flight West to help make travel more accessible for out-of-state applicants on the West Coast. Angel Flight West coordinates volunteer pilots who provide free air travel to those in need. If you are located on the West Coast and qualify, this may be an option to help cover your travel to Oceanside, CA.
A few things to keep in mind regarding Angel Flight West:
- Flights are conducted in small private aircraft, typically seating 4–6 passengers
- Depending on your location, your flight may include 2–3 legs
- There is a weight limit that applies to both passengers and any luggage, which will be factored into your travel arrangement
- You must be comfortable flying in a small aircraft
We will work with you to determine whether Angel Flight West is a good fit for your situation and help coordinate accordingly.
Mercy Medical Angels
For Veterans who may not be on the West Coast or are unable to use Angel Flight West, Mercy Medical Angels offers additional travel assistance through its Angel Wings for Veterans program.
Mercy Medical Angels provides two forms of support:
- Commercial Air Travel — Through an allocation of Southwest Airlines vouchers, Angel Wings for Veterans can assist with round-trip commercial flights for eligible Veterans traveling to obtain a service dog through an accredited program like ours.
- Ground Transportation — For Veterans driving to our facility, Mercy Medical Angels can provide gas cards or other ground transportation assistance for trips up to 300 miles one way.
Please note that Angel Wings for Veterans currently operates primarily along the East Coast and Mid-Atlantic region, so availability will depend on your location.
To apply, we can assist you in completing the Mercy Medical Angels application on your behalf. In order to do so, we will need your income documentation (such as VA benefits statements and your most recent tax return), and we will provide confirmation of your program approval and commitment to completing the hybrid format.
If you have questions about whether this program may be right for you, please reach out to us directly, and we will help determine the best travel option for your situation.
Getting Started
If you are ready to apply, please follow the link below. Questions? Reach out to us—we are happy to walk you through each step and make sure you have everything you need to get started.
Hybrid Program Application