Operation Sidekick is a small program and we have a limited number of dogs available at any given time. We only take referrals at this time through veteran advocates such as Veterans Service Officers, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and Therapists for their patients/clients. Given that a service dog is a form of medical treatment, the idea of adding a dog to a treatment plan should be discussed with a mental healthcare professional ahead of time.

Once it is decided that a service dog would be a good treatment option, the referring physician or representative can reach out to our Program Director, Sara Ondrako at sara@apbf.dog. At that time, an application will be submitted and a phone interview conducted to determine whether a Sidekick is both available and a good fit for the inquiring veteran and his/her family.