Service dog programs in Michigan and Illinois

At the Tallman Family Foundation, we raise and train the pups at no cost to our recipients. We rely on donations to support our efforts. After the pup is matched and goes home, costs would include, veterinary care, grooming, food and supplies.

The exact timeline depends on the dog’s training progress and the specific support they’ll provide to meet the client’s needs. The average for range for raising and training is 18 months to 2 years. The client will also receive training as appropriate.

Yes, the service dog will be fully certified to go everywhere with the new owner. However, it's important to understand that therapy dogs may have some restrictions, particularly in public access settings, compared to service dogs. These distinctions will be thoroughly explained during the application process.

If you’re a volunteer with our Foster Puppy Raiser Program, you’ll receive:

• Initial Training and Ongoing Support:

• Structured training sessions and guidance from experienced Tallman Family Foundation trainers as well as outside training support.

• Regular check-ins and support from Tallman Family Foundation staff.

• Access to training resources and materials.

• Essential Supplies:

• Initial supplies, such as a crate, leash, collar, and basic training tools.

• Potential for replacement or additional supplies as needed.

• Training Equipment:

• Specialized training equipment as required for the puppy's development.

• Community and Support Network:

• Opportunities to connect with other foster families.

• Support and guidance from the Tallman Family Foundation community.

• Liability Coverage:

• Liability coverage while the puppy is in your care.

• Clear Guidelines and Expectations:

• Detailed information about the foster role and responsibilities.

• Clear communication and support throughout the fostering period.

• Taking puppy to organized training sessions set up by TFF.

• Socialize the puppy in public settings and introduce them to various environments and experiences.

• Expenses food, essential supplies, and routine veterinary care.

• Providing a safe and nurturing home environment that supports the puppy's development.

• Consistently reinforcing training commands and implementing behavior modification techniques as directed by the Tallman Family Foundation trainers.

• Maintaining accurate records of the puppy's progress, including training logs, socialization experiences, and any health or behavioral concerns.

• Transporting the puppy to and from veterinary appointments, training sessions, and Tallman Family Foundation events as needed.

• Promptly communicating any health or behavioral issues to Tallman Family Foundation staff and following their guidance.

• Working with Tallman Family Foundation staff to prepare the puppy for its eventual placement with a client, including participation in transition meetings and potential client introductions.

• Providing daily exercise and mental stimulation to ensure the puppy's physical and emotional well-being

Thank you for your support! To play a role in the Tallman Family Foundation journey, you can:

• support our programs with a monetary donation

• share your time and talents by volunteering for one of our programs

• educate others about the impact of service dogs and advocate for inclusion

Visit our Get Involved page for more information.